Close to 38,000 people have put their trust and money in reserving the 84-MPG Elio from Elio Motors, but a delay in production has split the group in two parts, the ones that believe in Paul Elio and the skeptics! An 84-MPH vehicle for $6,800 sounds too good to be true in all honesty, which is the primary reason for the skeptics steadily gaining ground!
When Elio Motors announced their first automobile back in 2013, the world was taken aback! Production plans were initially slated for the summer of 2014, but unprecedented delays kept cropping up time and again. As a result, the people started getting more and more impatient. The production date has been pushed back to end 2015 for now.
According to the official statement from Elio Motors, 38,177 people have made reservations for the vehicle, and most of their booking amount is non-refundable. Hence, the delay has caused a general feeling of dissatisfaction among the crowd, although, the company is trying its best to work its magic the first time!
People, who see the Elio up close, are immediately attracted by it. The specifications of the vehicle are too good to be true, although, the Government’s regulation stating that people driving the Elio need to carry a motorcyclist’s license has not played a supportive role with the general populace.
Elio Motor’s plan, to commence operations from General Motors’ old plant at Shreveport, was well received by the locals, who would benefit the most from the operation. Paul Elio had the welfare of the locals in mind when laid out the basic plans for the company. People, who were looking forward to the Elio, have lost their enthusiasm for the vehicle, considering the numerous failed deadlines.
However, the company is not trying to dupe the customers, and they are in turn aware of this! Elio Motors posts a public tweet every Friday, explaining the current proceeds of the week and the steps that the company has taken to ensure smooth delivery of the vehicles to the respective customers.
The Elio is perfectly suited for urban commuting, and there are various reasons for the same. High fuel economy is one of the primary reasons, followed by lightweight and low CO2 emissions. The Elio is the perfect vehicle for daily commute, like driving around in a gas-guzzler makes no sense. Hence, if you have gone ahead and made a reservation for the Elio, you are moving on the right track!
We are yet to be informed of the official release date of the vehicle, although, the first batch is expected to reach the dealerships by early 2016 if things go according to plan. Fill us in on your thoughts via the Comments Section below!