Elio Motors - The Elio - Car that gets 84 MPG with a $6800 price (1 Viewer)

[Hooper31]

Good idea. I'm rooting for this guy to succeed, but this article seems to indicate that his he might have some serious problems with his financials.

That guy doesn't seem very unbiased. I think it was his constant reference to the car as a virginity shield that tipped me off. As if electric cars are causing panties to drop.

The article definitely had that feel. Reminded me of "Tucker", but the reality of the financials are what they are.

 

[westvirginia]

It's a motorcycle.

http://gas2.org/2013/05/13/elio-motors-still-thinks-it-can-sell-a-3-wheeler-why-it-cant/

That was my first thought - looks like a Can-Am spider with a cage over it, and the engine is smaller than my motorcycle. Good idea for a commuter car though.

 

[DaVinci]

I know its hard for some of the resident rednecks to believe that something like this could actually be a good thing. Also you'll see some negative "postings" from the like. I won't call them blogs or articles because we know most hick when it comes to complete thoughts don't get much further than "Honey, anything left in that 30 rack of Bud lights? Dang I think I done drank'em all" or "seems like a good day to go muddin".

There will not be any helmet wearing, its American made, huge plant already set manufacturing, lots of jobs being created. Little more than a prototype? He is already funded, money has been sunk in out of Motor City, I have friends invested - This is something he has been working on for years. it is going down. They've already done the morning talk show circuit and are currently traveling the country throwing marketing events. Deposits are coming in. My buddy Branden is heavily involved.

I'm not saying I'll buy one but it is exactly what many people have been waiting for. It's all standard well known technology. No electric car plugging in. It's just streamlined and light.

The resistance cracks me up. Instead of being positive and seeing a man who is living his dream, creating a vehicle that will do something no other vehicle can do at a price under $7000 be resistant and negative. Honestly I'd expect nothing else. Bringing up points is one thing if you've actually done some legitimate research but running to the first negative remark you can find on line to play devil's advocate makes you look like an idiot.

Exactly.

It's an interesting idea, but the niche is tiny. It's impractical as a primary car or as a second family car.

 

[B-Deep]

IF it came to reality and IF it was a car not a motorcycle and IF it was really that cheap and IF it got the 5 star crash rating and IF it really performed like they said then MAYBE it would sell

there's a whole ton of ifs there, and looking at that numbers article i don't see them all coming true

it'll probably sell for 3-4 times the projected amount IF it ever comes to market and at that price it'l flop

 

[Finless]

I know its hard for some of the resident rednecks to believe that something like this could actually be a good thing. Also you'll see some negative "postings" from the like. I won't call them blogs or articles because we know most hick when it comes to complete thoughts don't get much further than "Honey, anything left in that 30 rack of Bud lights? Dang I think I done drank'em all" or "seems like a good day to go muddin".

There will not be any helmet wearing, its American made, huge plant already set manufacturing, lots of jobs being created. Little more than a prototype? He is already funded, money has been sunk in out of Motor City, I have friends invested - This is something he has been working on for years. it is going down. They've already done the morning talk show circuit and are currently traveling the country throwing marketing events. Deposits are coming in. My buddy Branden is heavily involved.

I'm not saying I'll buy one but it is exactly what many people have been waiting for. It's all standard well known technology. No electric car plugging in. It's just streamlined and light.

The resistance cracks me up. Instead of being positive and seeing a man who is living his dream, creating a vehicle that will do something no other vehicle can do at a price under $7000 be resistant and negative. Honestly I'd expect nothing else. Bringing up points is one thing if you've actually done some legitimate research but running to the first negative remark you can find on line to play devil's advocate makes you look like an idiot.

For the record, I'm not a hater... it's an interesting enough idea. I just think the claims in the video are a bit shallow and if you're going to pitch me with smoke and mirrors, then how much confidence should I have in the actual product? Again, not saying this won't be awesome and it's not cool to see someone take an idea from paper to manufacturing, just that the video would have hooked me better if he hadn't glossed over details.

broski, do your research. The info is out there. I wasn't pitching. I posted one vid. There's a 100 out there. This is actually big news. It's not some guy in his garage making claims he has a vehicle that runs on parsnips. The work is all but done. It's happening. This is not smoke and mirrors. I made the original post because I know this is a vehicle that fits the needs of many. I also wanted to see how it would go down. What others would come up with which usually turns into a good opportunity to rip a few ignorant posts. I love debating with those with very little in the way of legitimate smarts. And I know those who find it interesting will bring it as well.

I have no doubt this car will be a success. Will there be setbacks, likely. I'm sure theres those in the auto industry sweating when they hear an American made car can get 80+ MPG for $6800. They can't get the ignorant to side with them because its foreign or unsafe or because it's not really a car. The attempted attacks are coming already but this guy has his ducks in a row. He's an engineer (pretty sure) from Michigan. He knows the industry.

They'll keep the commercials coming which tell the ignorant its a good thing for the country to dump $40,000 on a truck that you really only use for "haulin brush outta the backyard" twice a year.

"I done made it to work 20 years on time - loved one woman for all my life" - I GOTTA HAVE THAT TRUCK. Think about who these people Market to. The man with no ambition. The guy who doesn't want his own gig or company or to become independently wealthy. The guy who never left his hometown. Stayed there and married the first girl he dipped his wick in.

Now let me clarify. There's plenty of good folks out there who are neckish or hicks. I know this. I eventually want to be off the grid, hunting and fishing and providing for myself. That's not who I am referring to. I'm referring to the ignorant who can't peel themselves away from the couch or a rack of tall boys to do something meaningful or something that actually makes them happy. Notching about politics and concepts they really do not understand. If you think making to your low paying job everyday on time humping it for the man while half your paycheck goes to your chromed out jacked up Silverado is living, you're already dead.

 

[Guest]

I know its hard for some of the resident rednecks to believe that something like this could actually be a good thing. Also you'll see some negative "postings" from the like. I won't call them blogs or articles because we know most hick when it comes to complete thoughts don't get much further than "Honey, anything left in that 30 rack of Bud lights? Dang I think I done drank'em all" or "seems like a good day to go muddin".

There will not be any helmet wearing, its American made, huge plant already set manufacturing, lots of jobs being created. Little more than a prototype? He is already funded, money has been sunk in out of Motor City, I have friends invested - This is something he has been working on for years. it is going down. They've already done the morning talk show circuit and are currently traveling the country throwing marketing events. Deposits are coming in. My buddy Branden is heavily involved.

I'm not saying I'll buy one but it is exactly what many people have been waiting for. It's all standard well known technology. No electric car plugging in. It's just streamlined and light.

The resistance cracks me up. Instead of being positive and seeing a man who is living his dream, creating a vehicle that will do something no other vehicle can do at a price under $7000 be resistant and negative. Honestly I'd expect nothing else. Bringing up points is one thing if you've actually done some legitimate research but running to the first negative remark you can find on line to play devil's advocate makes you look like an idiot.

Exactly. It's an interesting idea, but the niche is tiny. It's impractical as a primary car or as a second family car.

If they can be delivered at ~$7000, I'm not so sure how tiny the niche is. A lot of people won't ride a motorcycle because of safety issues. If this thing can pass safety standards, I think a lot of that goes away.

I like this idea better than a ~$40,000 hybrid for a second vehicle.

 

[matuski]

watch the video or give a reason for the negativity. 700 miles on a tank. Sure it may not be a fit for everyone but it is an absolute fit for a lot of folks. Communters, city folks, those who are environmentally concerned, those who are frugal.

It is a motorcycle by law. You want to wear a helmet inside this thing?

I wish you would, because you would look super cool.

And Lord know this is what it's all about.

Yes.

Okay, so being practical and saving a boatload of cash isn't for you, then. That's okay.

Wearing a helmet inside a car is practical?

There isn't going to be any helmet wearing. They are going for it being a car not a motorcycle. The roll cage and the enclosed cabin make helmet wearing silly.

From what I'm reading there are mixed reports. They are going for it being a car without it going through the full extent of testing cars go through.

Some seem more certain they can pull this off, others do not think they can.

I'll wait and see.

 

[glock]

watch the video or give a reason for the negativity. 700 miles on a tank. Sure it may not be a fit for everyone but it is an absolute fit for a lot of folks. Communters, city folks, those who are environmentally concerned, those who are frugal.

It is a motorcycle by law. You want to wear a helmet inside this thing?

I wish you would, because you would look super cool.

And Lord know this is what it's all about.

Yes.

Okay, so being practical and saving a boatload of cash isn't for you, then. That's okay.

Wearing a helmet inside a car is practical?

Let's be obtuse, now.

 

[B-Deep]

All that being said, i want people to keep trying for things like this.

I would like to see something like this come to fruition.

 

[Guest]

"I done made it to work 20 years on time - loved one woman for all my life" - I GOTTA HAVE THAT TRUCK. Think about who these people Market to. The man with no ambition. The guy who doesn't want his own gig or company or to become independently wealthy. The guy who never left his hometown. Stayed there and married the first girl he dipped his wick in.

Now let me clarify. There's plenty of good folks out there who are neckish or hicks. I know this. I eventually want to be off the grid, hunting and fishing and providing for myself. That's not who I am referring to. I'm referring to the ignorant who can't peel themselves away from the couch or a rack of tall boys to do something meaningful or something that actually makes them happy. Notching about politics and concepts they really do not understand. If you think making to your low paying job everyday on time humping it for the man while half your paycheck goes to your chromed out jacked up Silverado is living, you're already dead.

I think at this point it would be better if you stopped posting. You are doing more harm than good. JMHO.

 

[bigmarc27]

I'd maybe be interested a few years in after the kinks are worked out. I will never be an early adopter on a car whether it be something like this, the Tesla, or any new hybrid.

 

[Finless]

Its coming to fruition.

 

[bigmarc27]

I know its hard for some of the resident rednecks to believe that something like this could actually be a good thing. Also you'll see some negative "postings" from the like. I won't call them blogs or articles because we know most hick when it comes to complete thoughts don't get much further than "Honey, anything left in that 30 rack of Bud lights? Dang I think I done drank'em all" or "seems like a good day to go muddin".

There will not be any helmet wearing, its American made, huge plant already set manufacturing, lots of jobs being created. Little more than a prototype? He is already funded, money has been sunk in out of Motor City, I have friends invested - This is something he has been working on for years. it is going down. They've already done the morning talk show circuit and are currently traveling the country throwing marketing events. Deposits are coming in. My buddy Branden is heavily involved.

I'm not saying I'll buy one but it is exactly what many people have been waiting for. It's all standard well known technology. No electric car plugging in. It's just streamlined and light.

The resistance cracks me up. Instead of being positive and seeing a man who is living his dream, creating a vehicle that will do something no other vehicle can do at a price under $7000 be resistant and negative. Honestly I'd expect nothing else. Bringing up points is one thing if you've actually done some legitimate research but running to the first negative remark you can find on line to play devil's advocate makes you look like an idiot.

For the record, I'm not a hater... it's an interesting enough idea. I just think the claims in the video are a bit shallow and if you're going to pitch me with smoke and mirrors, then how much confidence should I have in the actual product? Again, not saying this won't be awesome and it's not cool to see someone take an idea from paper to manufacturing, just that the video would have hooked me better if he hadn't glossed over details.

broski, do your research. The info is out there. I wasn't pitching. I posted one vid. There's a 100 out there. This is actually big news. It's not some guy in his garage making claims he has a vehicle that runs on parsnips. The work is all but done. It's happening. This is not smoke and mirrors. I made the original post because I know this is a vehicle that fits the needs of many. I also wanted to see how it would go down. What others would come up with which usually turns into a good opportunity to rip a few ignorant posts. I love debating with those with very little in the way of legitimate smarts. And I know those who find it interesting will bring it as well.

I have no doubt this car will be a success. Will there be setbacks, likely. I'm sure theres those in the auto industry sweating when they hear an American made car can get 80+ MPG for $6800. They can't get the ignorant to side with them because its foreign or unsafe or because it's not really a car. The attempted attacks are coming already but this guy has his ducks in a row. He's an engineer (pretty sure) from Michigan. He knows the industry.

They'll keep the commercials coming which tell the ignorant its a good thing for the country to dump $40,000 on a truck that you really only use for "haulin brush outta the backyard" twice a year.

"I done made it to work 20 years on time - loved one woman for all my life" - I GOTTA HAVE THAT TRUCK. Think about who these people Market to. The man with no ambition. The guy who doesn't want his own gig or company or to become independently wealthy. The guy who never left his hometown. Stayed there and married the first girl he dipped his wick in.

Now let me clarify. There's plenty of good folks out there who are neckish or hicks. I know this. I eventually want to be off the grid, hunting and fishing and providing for myself. That's not who I am referring to. I'm referring to the ignorant who can't peel themselves away from the couch or a rack of tall boys to do something meaningful or something that actually makes them happy. Notching about politics and concepts they really do not understand. If you think making to your low paying job everyday on time humping it for the man while half your paycheck goes to your chromed out jacked up Silverado is living, you're already dead.

"I done made it to work 20 years on time - loved one woman for all my life" - I GOTTA HAVE THAT TRUCK. Think about who these people Market to. The man with no ambition. The guy who doesn't want his own gig or company or to become independently wealthy. The guy who never left his hometown. Stayed there and married the first girl he dipped his wick in.Now let me clarify. There's plenty of good folks out there who are neckish or hicks. I know this. I eventually want to be off the grid, hunting and fishing and providing for myself. That's not who I am referring to. I'm referring to the ignorant who can't peel themselves away from the couch or a rack of tall boys to do something meaningful or something that actually makes them happy. Notching about politics and concepts they really do not understand. If you think making to your low paying job everyday on time humping it for the man while half your paycheck goes to your chromed out jacked up Silverado is living, you're already dead.

I think at this point it would be better if you stopped posting. You are doing more harm than good. JMHO.

Yeah, where did the redneck stuff come from? If its a good option, people will want buy it.

 

[NCCommish]

Good idea. I'm rooting for this guy to succeed, but this article seems to indicate that his he might have some serious problems with his financials.

That guy doesn't seem very unbiased. I think it was his constant reference to the car as a virginity shield that tipped me off. As if electric cars are causing panties to drop.

ok

but beyond that, did you look at the numbers?

You mean the numbers where he compared future sales numbers to Jaguar sales? Yeah I did. I think those financials look very simplistic and don't resemble the kinds of financials I am used to seeing. I find myself wondering if I saw everything or not. And this guy is too biased to be taken at face value. But hey I don't have a penny invested so all I am looking for is to see if they can get it on the road.

 

[matuski]

poor finless.

 

[B-Deep]

Its coming to fruition.

Its coming to fruition.

not if he cannot make the payment on the GM plant

and

not if he cannot make a profit selling these cars at that price

no matter how great of guy he is that does not impact the $$$$

 

[B-Deep]

Good idea. I'm rooting for this guy to succeed, but this article seems to indicate that his he might have some serious problems with his financials.

That guy doesn't seem very unbiased. I think it was his constant reference to the car as a virginity shield that tipped me off. As if electric cars are causing panties to drop.

ok

but beyond that, did you look at the numbers?

You mean the numbers where he compared future sales numbers to Jaguar sales? Yeah I did. I think those financials look very simplistic and don't resemble the kinds of financials I am used to seeing. I find myself wondering if I saw everything or not. And this guy is too biased to be taken at face value. But hey I don't have a penny invested so all I am looking for is to see if they can get it on the road.

the financials were not made up, they are Elio's financials. The fact that they are simplistic is a lot of the point. When a major selling point is a very low sticker price the company ha dbetter know it can be profitable, i don't know that this company has any idea

 

[jason12vb]

Good idea. I'm rooting for this guy to succeed, but this article seems to indicate that his he might have some serious problems with his financials.

That guy doesn't seem very unbiased. I think it was his constant reference to the car as a virginity shield that tipped me off. As if electric cars are causing panties to drop.

ok

but beyond that, did you look at the numbers?

You mean the numbers where he compared future sales numbers to Jaguar sales? Yeah I did. I think those financials look very simplistic and don't resemble the kinds of financials I am used to seeing. I find myself wondering if I saw everything or not. And this guy is too biased to be taken at face value. But hey I don't have a penny invested so all I am looking for is to see if they can get it on the road.

That author is also the same guy that wrote the first "article" linked in this thread (http://gas2.org/2013...er-why-it-cant/). He does make some good points again...but seriously, comparing a $7,000 vehicle to Mini, Jaguar, Range Rover, and Volvo makes him look foolish. Why not compare it to the small car or hybrid sales...a new $7000 "car" certainly cuts into the used-car market as well, no?

 

[Finless]

I apologize. I'm definitely out of line. I'm opinionated, arrogant and tend to think I'm better than others and that is BS. I can't prune what has been quoted but if a mod can I'm all about it. I would never want to negatively impact these guys.

 

[B-Deep]

Good idea. I'm rooting for this guy to succeed, but this article seems to indicate that his he might have some serious problems with his financials.

That guy doesn't seem very unbiased. I think it was his constant reference to the car as a virginity shield that tipped me off. As if electric cars are causing panties to drop.

ok

but beyond that, did you look at the numbers?

You mean the numbers where he compared future sales numbers to Jaguar sales? Yeah I did. I think those financials look very simplistic and don't resemble the kinds of financials I am used to seeing. I find myself wondering if I saw everything or not. And this guy is too biased to be taken at face value. But hey I don't have a penny invested so all I am looking for is to see if they can get it on the road.

That author is also the same guy that wrote the first "article" linked in this thread (http://gas2.org/2013...er-why-it-cant/). He does make some good points again...but seriously, comparing a $7,000 vehicle to Mini, Jaguar, Range Rover, and Volvo makes him look foolish. Why not compare it to the small car or hybrid sales...a new $7000 "car" certainly cuts into the used-car market as well, no?

250,000 is a big number, in other words, and — if Elio hits that number — that would make the Elio trike the number 4 best-selling vehicle in the US using 2011 numbers. The Elio would out-sell the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ram pickup, etc., etc. And it would have to do it all with (get this) 120 dealers.

 

[B-Deep]

I apologize. I'm definitely out of line. I'm opinionated, arrogant and tend to think I'm better than others and that is BS. I can't prune what has been quoted but if a mod can I'm all about it. I would never want to negatively impact these guys.

i don't think this thread is going to impact them

 

[Cliff Clavin]

I apologize. I'm definitely out of line. I'm opinionated, arrogant and tend to think I'm better than others and that is BS. I can't prune what has been quoted but if a mod can I'm all about it. I would never want to negatively impact these guys.

i don't think this thread is going to impact them

It has made me not want to buy one.

 

[Rayderr]

Aptera had a hybrid (330miles to the gallon) and an all electric version of this. Despite getting 5,000 deposits for vehicles, the company still went belly up.

 

[B-Deep]

I apologize. I'm definitely out of line. I'm opinionated, arrogant and tend to think I'm better than others and that is BS. I can't prune what has been quoted but if a mod can I'm all about it. I would never want to negatively impact these guys.

i don't think this thread is going to impact them

It has made me not want to buy one.

they'll get by on 249,999 units

 

[NCCommish]

Good idea. I'm rooting for this guy to succeed, but this article seems to indicate that his he might have some serious problems with his financials.

That guy doesn't seem very unbiased. I think it was his constant reference to the car as a virginity shield that tipped me off. As if electric cars are causing panties to drop.

ok

but beyond that, did you look at the numbers?

You mean the numbers where he compared future sales numbers to Jaguar sales? Yeah I did. I think those financials look very simplistic and don't resemble the kinds of financials I am used to seeing. I find myself wondering if I saw everything or not. And this guy is too biased to be taken at face value. But hey I don't have a penny invested so all I am looking for is to see if they can get it on the road.

That author is also the same guy that wrote the first "article" linked in this thread (http://gas2.org/2013...er-why-it-cant/). He does make some good points again...but seriously, comparing a $7,000 vehicle to Mini, Jaguar, Range Rover, and Volvo makes him look foolish. Why not compare it to the small car or hybrid sales...a new $7000 "car" certainly cuts into the used-car market as well, no?

250,000 is a big number, in other words, and — if Elio hits that number — that would make the Elio trike the number 4 best-selling vehicle in the US using 2011 numbers. The Elio would out-sell the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ram pickup, etc., etc. And it would have to do it all with (get this) 120 dealers.

And again you are comparing this with cars that sell for twice as much. I just bought a two year old Nissan that was almost twice as much as this car. I think people are seriously underestimating the price point here. Don't know if 250k is doable or not, guess that will depend on where the dealers are based, but that price point is going to drive some sales if they can get it out the door of the factory.

 

[Finless]

I apologize. I'm definitely out of line. I'm opinionated, arrogant and tend to think I'm better than others and that is BS. I can't prune what has been quoted but if a mod can I'm all about it. I would never want to negatively impact these guys.

i don't think this thread is going to impact them

Well my rantings are my own #### obviously and really have no place in a thread like this.

 

[Finless]

I apologize. I'm definitely out of line. I'm opinionated, arrogant and tend to think I'm better than others and that is BS. I can't prune what has been quoted but if a mod can I'm all about it. I would never want to negatively impact these guys.

i don't think this thread is going to impact them

It has made me not want to buy one.

If a posting by one person who is in no way affiliated with the company is enough to make you not want to buy one, you're too easily influened and you probably were never a prospect to begin with.

 

[Guest]

I apologize. I'm definitely out of line. I'm opinionated, arrogant and tend to think I'm better than others and that is BS. I can't prune what has been quoted but if a mod can I'm all about it. I would never want to negatively impact these guys.

i don't think this thread is going to impact them

It has made me not want to buy one.

they'll get by on 249,999 units

Scratch me off the list as well. Now we're down to 249,998 and it's getting serious.

I'm just going to build my own now.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Should have gone with a dolorean style door and a rear window.

 

[Rayderr]

I apologize. I'm definitely out of line. I'm opinionated, arrogant and tend to think I'm better than others and that is BS. I can't prune what has been quoted but if a mod can I'm all about it. I would never want to negatively impact these guys.

i don't think this thread is going to impact them

It has made me not want to buy one.

they'll get by on 249,999 units

Scratch me off the list as well. Now we're down to 249,998 and it's getting serious.

I'm just going to build my own now.

Which you can since you can apparently buy all the parts at your local napa store.

 

[B-Deep]

Good idea. I'm rooting for this guy to succeed, but this article seems to indicate that his he might have some serious problems with his financials.

That guy doesn't seem very unbiased. I think it was his constant reference to the car as a virginity shield that tipped me off. As if electric cars are causing panties to drop.

ok

but beyond that, did you look at the numbers?

You mean the numbers where he compared future sales numbers to Jaguar sales? Yeah I did. I think those financials look very simplistic and don't resemble the kinds of financials I am used to seeing. I find myself wondering if I saw everything or not. And this guy is too biased to be taken at face value. But hey I don't have a penny invested so all I am looking for is to see if they can get it on the road.

That author is also the same guy that wrote the first "article" linked in this thread (http://gas2.org/2013...er-why-it-cant/). He does make some good points again...but seriously, comparing a $7,000 vehicle to Mini, Jaguar, Range Rover, and Volvo makes him look foolish. Why not compare it to the small car or hybrid sales...a new $7000 "car" certainly cuts into the used-car market as well, no?

250,000 is a big number, in other words, and — if Elio hits that number — that would make the Elio trike the number 4 best-selling vehicle in the US using 2011 numbers. The Elio would out-sell the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ram pickup, etc., etc. And it would have to do it all with (get this) 120 dealers.

And again you are comparing this with cars that sell for twice as much. I just bought a two year old Nissan that was almost twice as much as this car. I think people are seriously underestimating the price point here. Don't know if 250k is doable or not, guess that will depend on where the dealers are based, but that price point is going to drive some sales if they can get it out the door of the factory.

well if we can only compare it to cars of its exact cost we cannot compare it to anything. The point is in year 2 the financials project this to sell an overwhelming number of units with a skeleton company selling them

that does not seem realistic, is it theoretically possible, maybe, but realistic, no.

the entire appeal of this car is based on the price point, to hit that price point the numbers have to add up and they don't

i hope they find a way to make them add up, but so far their plan is simply to be one of the best selling cars in the country within 2 years of the first car rolling off the line with a limited sales force,and an average of less than 3 dealers per state,

I think that sounds optimistic, though i truly hope i am wrong

 

[Finless]

I'd assume the low price point has something to do with getting it out there initially. He always wants it to be affordable but affordable could be $11,000 IMO. Pretty sure Bezos was in the red for 5+ years while he grew Amazon from an online bookstore to the beast it is today. We all know how that worked out. I admit I have remember not much of what he told me about marketing and long term profit plans but it would make sense to me to get it out there cheaply, prove it can be done then a few years later bring the price to where it needs to be to make the company profitable long term. I really don't think funding is going to be a huge hurdle at this point. I think most of it is already in the pipeline. A lot of people are seeing this vehicle and seeing dollar signs...from investors to commuters.

 

[B-Deep]

some new info

it seems a new company is getting involved to assist elio, as the parish does not want to give him $10million. I have no idea what that does to the plans or cost of the vehicle.

http://www.shreveporttimes.com/article/20130818/SPECIALPROJECTS01/308180019/Caddo-commissioners-mull-GM-plant-purchase

 

[Rayderr]

I'd assume the low price point has something to do with getting it out there initially. He always wants it to be affordable but affordable could be $11,000 IMO. Pretty sure Bezos was in the red for 5+ years while he grew Amazon from an online bookstore to the beast it is today. We all know how that worked out. I admit I have remember not much of what he told me about marketing and long term profit plans but it would make sense to me to get it out there cheaply, prove it can be done then a few years later bring the price to where it needs to be to make the company profitable long term. I really don't think funding is going to be a huge hurdle at this point. I think most of it is already in the pipeline. A lot of people are seeing this vehicle and seeing dollar signs...from investors to commuters.

For every business that went on to be successful after spending the first several years deep in the red, there have been hundreds that didn't survive.

 

[B-Deep]

If it starts to get close to the price of current compacts i don't know how well it does.

 

[UniAlias]

I'm happy Finless is back and posting again but sad that he's apparently still heavily under the influence of drugs.

 

[Statcruncher]

Pretty cool concept to be honest, I'm all for more efficient options hitting the market. As a person who drives a 2005 Suburban it would be nice to have one of these as a second vehicle. Running the numbers though even at the low $6,800 price point it would take about 3 years of driving it 150 miles per week to recoup the initial investment via fuel savings. Doesn't make sense for me right now but it will be an intrigueing option if it's up and running when it's time to replace the Suburban.

 

[Finless]

The numbers have to add up based on a long term plan. Not in year one or two. I'm sorry but you don't understand how a model like this works. Once again, I'm not positive either. Maybe the thought is keep it under $7000 which is something he definitely hammered home to me. Sell tons of units with low profit margins? I honestly don't know. But what I do know is paying $9K even $10K for a relatively stylish vehicle that you only have fill up every 2-4 weeks should not be a tough sell in a social environment which is progressively looking for alternatives to the way we currently commute. So even if its plan A it can easily roll into plan B which when you've come this far I would have yo assume already exists. Once again tras about Bezos and Amazon and all the talk about his lack of profits and dumping Monet into a black hole in the early days. Guy was calm, confident and had a plan. Look at how that all shook out.

 

[glock]

Should have gone with a dolorean style door and a rear window.

I like the Delorean style gull wing door idea (maybe not enough structural support?), but there's no need for a rear window- the way it tapers the driver can pick everything up with his sideview mirrors.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Should have gone with a dolorean style door and a rear window.

I like the Delorean style gull wing door idea (maybe not enough structural support?), but there's no need for a rear window- the way it tapers the driver can pick everything up with his sideview mirrors.

The Delorean door would make it seem even more modern IMO and also allow easier access to the backseat/storage area (make the door itself 3/4 length). The rear window would make it less claustrophobic inside, and also allow for less adjustment to how people drive on a highway or backup in a parking space. Some people hate side-view mirrors.

 

[NCCommish]

If it starts to get close to the price of current compacts i don't know how well it does.

yeah the excitement dissipates a bit when we start talking an extra 5-6 grand.

 

[glock]

Should have gone with a dolorean style door and a rear window.

I like the Delorean style gull wing door idea (maybe not enough structural support?), but there's no need for a rear window- the way it tapers the driver can pick everything up with his sideview mirrors.

The Delorean door would make it seem even more modern IMO and also allow easier access to the backseat/storage area (make the door itself 3/4 length). The rear window would make it less claustrophobic inside, and also allow for less adjustment to how people drive on a highway or backup in a parking space. Some people hate side-view mirrors.

Any rear window wouldactually be more of a sunroof...

 

[cosjobs]

I think its a great niche product that could have great success.

A perfect third car for most families

A great first car for a student

The price point is really what makes it work. Its cheaper than most motorcycles or even golf carts.

My wife drives 10 miles a day work commute. I can see her using one of these. We could sell our one year old sonata, buy one of these and pocket $10K

Most of the driving my wife or I do is one person. I'd say at least 90%. So not being able to have two people seated side by side is not really an issue most of the time.

I'd really consider a motorcycle, but at this price it would not be a very good one and in the Texas heat, it would be impractical at least four months of the year.

With temp control and this price, it should sell like crazy.

For a comparison, I'd look to the VW beetle when it first hit the American market. Everyone scoffed at its size and looks. But the $2000 price tag and practicality/economy made it a huge success. On the other hand, it may be more of a Yugo, which squandered its intial success with a piece of crap product.

 

[Drifter]

I think it's pretty cool and would strongly consider it in a city like Seattle.

That said, the reservation system is completely convoluted and silly. It doesn't bode well that a mind that came up with that system may be involved in designing a vehicle, IMO.

 

[Dr. Gobbler]

Man you guys are so negative. Here is a product made in America by Americans for affordable transportation targeted towards commuters. You know commuters, those people that drive 6000 lb cars to move their 120-450lb bodies from A-B, which is the most inefficient process going. Just for a second think about all the work it takes to get you that gallon of gas from the ground to your tank, now couple that with you needing thousands and thousands of pounds of metal and plastic on four wheels to get your fat ### to a job you hate. The height of inefficiency!!! Now, is this thing perfect? I don't know. I do know that it's a step in the right direction, American made, fuel efficient(I would prefer it be electric), lighter weight so its easier on our roads and a low price point, even if they don't hit the $6,800 mark and come in under 10k it's awesome. I guess innovation is always met with negativity by those who have never taken an idea and turned it into reality. You morons are in here arguing about helmets? Why don't you spend less time criticizing and get into the game and come up with something, anything, that is useful for man.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Man you guys are so negative. Here is a product made in America by Americans for affordable transportation targeted towards commuters. You know commuters, those people that drive 6000 lb cars to move their 120-450lb bodies from A-B, which is the most inefficient process going. Just for a second think about all the work it takes to get you that gallon of gas from the ground to your tank, now couple that with you needing thousands and thousands of pounds of metal and plastic on four wheels to get your fat ### to a job you hate. The height of inefficiency!!! Now, is this thing perfect? I don't know. I do know that it's a step in the right direction, American made, fuel efficient(I would prefer it be electric), lighter weight so its easier on our roads and a low price point, even if they don't hit the $6,800 mark and come in under 10k it's awesome. I guess innovation is always met with negativity by those who have never taken an idea and turned it into reality. You morons are in here arguing about helmets? Why don't you spend less time criticizing and get into the game and come up with something, anything, that is useful for man.

Aren't you the guy who doesn't pay his gambling debts?

 

[B-Deep]

Man you guys are so negative. Here is a product made in America by Americans for affordable transportation targeted towards commuters. You know commuters, those people that drive 6000 lb cars to move their 120-450lb bodies from A-B, which is the most inefficient process going. Just for a second think about all the work it takes to get you that gallon of gas from the ground to your tank, now couple that with you needing thousands and thousands of pounds of metal and plastic on four wheels to get your fat ### to a job you hate. The height of inefficiency!!! Now, is this thing perfect? I don't know. I do know that it's a step in the right direction, American made, fuel efficient(I would prefer it be electric), lighter weight so its easier on our roads and a low price point, even if they don't hit the $6,800 mark and come in under 10k it's awesome. I guess innovation is always met with negativity by those who have never taken an idea and turned it into reality. You morons are in here arguing about helmets? Why don't you spend less time criticizing and get into the game and come up with something, anything, that is useful for man.

i believe this idea has yet to become reality

 

[Dr. Gobbler]

Man you guys are so negative. Here is a product made in America by Americans for affordable transportation targeted towards commuters. You know commuters, those people that drive 6000 lb cars to move their 120-450lb bodies from A-B, which is the most inefficient process going. Just for a second think about all the work it takes to get you that gallon of gas from the ground to your tank, now couple that with you needing thousands and thousands of pounds of metal and plastic on four wheels to get your fat ### to a job you hate. The height of inefficiency!!! Now, is this thing perfect? I don't know. I do know that it's a step in the right direction, American made, fuel efficient(I would prefer it be electric), lighter weight so its easier on our roads and a low price point, even if they don't hit the $6,800 mark and come in under 10k it's awesome. I guess innovation is always met with negativity by those who have never taken an idea and turned it into reality. You morons are in here arguing about helmets? Why don't you spend less time criticizing and get into the game and come up with something, anything, that is useful for man.

Aren't you the guy who doesn't pay his gambling debts?

Aren't you the guy that blew me in a Denny's parking lot for half a pack of Newports and my left over Moons over Myhammy sandwich?

 

[matuski]

Man you guys are so negative. Here is a product made in America by Americans for affordable transportation targeted towards commuters. You know commuters, those people that drive 6000 lb cars to move their 120-450lb bodies from A-B, which is the most inefficient process going. Just for a second think about all the work it takes to get you that gallon of gas from the ground to your tank, now couple that with you needing thousands and thousands of pounds of metal and plastic on four wheels to get your fat ### to a job you hate. The height of inefficiency!!! Now, is this thing perfect? I don't know. I do know that it's a step in the right direction, American made, fuel efficient(I would prefer it be electric), lighter weight so its easier on our roads and a low price point, even if they don't hit the $6,800 mark and come in under 10k it's awesome. I guess innovation is always met with negativity by those who have never taken an idea and turned it into reality. You morons are in here arguing about helmets? Why don't you spend less time criticizing and get into the game and come up with something, anything, that is useful for man.

Nothing negative about it, just fact - if I have to wear a helmet I'm not interested, if it isn't safer than a motorcycle I'm not interested. Address these and I am very likely interested.. I get paid handsomely for mileage and having this as a vehicle would be profitable for me.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Man you guys are so negative. Here is a product made in America by Americans for affordable transportation targeted towards commuters. You know commuters, those people that drive 6000 lb cars to move their 120-450lb bodies from A-B, which is the most inefficient process going. Just for a second think about all the work it takes to get you that gallon of gas from the ground to your tank, now couple that with you needing thousands and thousands of pounds of metal and plastic on four wheels to get your fat ### to a job you hate. The height of inefficiency!!! Now, is this thing perfect? I don't know. I do know that it's a step in the right direction, American made, fuel efficient(I would prefer it be electric), lighter weight so its easier on our roads and a low price point, even if they don't hit the $6,800 mark and come in under 10k it's awesome. I guess innovation is always met with negativity by those who have never taken an idea and turned it into reality. You morons are in here arguing about helmets? Why don't you spend less time criticizing and get into the game and come up with something, anything, that is useful for man.

Aren't you the guy who doesn't pay his gambling debts?

Aren't you the guy that blew me in a Denny's parking lot for half a pack of Newports and my left over Moons over Myhammy sandwich?

No, you have me mistaken for some other guy you received head from. There must be a lot to get so easily confused.