Elio Motors Update: Latest Prototype Shown, Lease & Contracts Signed, Factory Stores Announced

Since we last looked at Elio Motors, the startup that plans on selling an 84 mpg, $6,800 tandem reverse trike to people looking to replace 15 year old beaters, there have been a number of developments involving the company. To begin with, the start of production has been pushed back until the beginning of 2015. Though Elio had originally announced that production would start in Q4 of this year, there were delays in finalizing the real estate deal for the former General Motors assembly plant in Shreveport, Louisiana where Elio plans to build their vehicles, including assembling their own engines (whose preliminary specifications have been announced). There have also be some changes to the car’s design as it gets closer to production, with a fourth prototype being introduced. Finally, Elio has announced how they will market and service the vehicle. Like Tesla, they will be setting up factory owned stores to sell directly to customers. Those stores, though, won’t be providing service.

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  • ToolGuy Ok, the age isn't scary, the mileage isn't scary, but the badge is. But hang on, it has the bigger engine, no turbo, 'new' tires, the headlight doesn't scare me (I was wrong, slightly scary), bulbs and speakers I can do, new window regulator is under a hundred bucks, the transmission issue was scary but seems manageable (if it goes away when warm), AC issue intrigues me, headliner is easy (if what I'm thinking). I'm at $1,800 and will probably regret it but there it is.
  • 28-Cars-Later Artistic design that resonates with people (your styling sucks Honda, so are you holding back on us?)Automated driving and advanced driver assistance systems that ensure safety and peace of mind (no one wants this)New value of EVs as a “space” for people (wouldn't any vehicle fit this definition?)The joy of driving with the feeling of oneness with the vehicle (you should already be doing this)Outstanding electric efficiency and performance (finally something relevant)
  • Dave M. some I think were done right were the Mini, PT Cruiser, Fiat Spyder, and 2nd gen New Beetle. The GTO, HHR, SSR, and Thunderbird were missed opportunities.
  • Gray All good with me. Surprised?
  • The Oracle Stellantis has been battered lately.