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Should Elio Offer An Ecu Tuned For Higher Hp?

tenbsmith

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Elio should offer an OEM option that changes the programming of the Engine Control Unit to provide higher horsepower--this would likely result in lower MPG for this version. Many potential Elio buyers want high mpg above all else, which is why this should be an option. On the other hand, many potential buyers would happily loose a few MPG if they could get a few HP. This sort of buyer would gladly pay a bit more for an Elio with more HP that required premium gas. With a relatively small upfront investment, this could woo additional buyers to purchase a higher profit-margin version of the Elio.

Anyhow, that's what I think, what do you think?
 
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jetpack54

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Elio should offer an OEM option that changes the programming of the Engine Control Unit to provide higher horsepower--this would likely result in lower mpg for this version. Many potential Elio buyers want high mpg above all else, which is why this should be an option. On the other hand, many potential buyers indicate they would happily loose a few mpg if they could get a few hp. This sort of buyer would be happy to pay a bit more to buy an Elio with more HP and required premium gas. With a relatively small upfront investment, this could woo additional buyers to purchase a higher profit-margin version of the Elio.

Anyhow, that's what I think, what do you think?
I'm in total agreement with your assessment. They will be rolling more sales if they satisfy that particular demographics that have a need for more horses. I'm one of them.
 

Rideoften

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Elio should offer an OEM option that changes the programming of the Engine Control Unit to provide higher horsepower--this would likely result in lower mpg for this version. Many potential Elio buyers want high mpg above all else, which is why this should be an option. On the other hand, many potential buyers indicate they would happily loose a few mpg if they could get a few hp. This sort of buyer would be happy to pay a bit more to buy an Elio with more HP and required premium gas. With a relatively small upfront investment, this could woo additional buyers to purchase a higher profit-margin version of the Elio.

Anyhow, that's what I think, what do you think?
Same here. I'd gladly give up a few mpg for a little more performance. I'll bet quite a few after market items will come available if this thing catches on.

Rideoften
 

tenbsmith

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I agree that we'll start seeing after-market items if it catches on. That will probably included 'chipping' options very similar to what I described. But, I'd prefer to be able to get a high HP ECU out the gate.
 

jtmarten

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I disagree.
Only offer it with a standard, high efficiency tune optimized for the best economy possible. Why? Cost savings. Those that want more power can opt to purchase a tune from an aftermarket provider. Higher stock power can impact safety ratings and yield much higher cost: now you need stronger brakes=$$ and better wheels & tires=$$$$ (to keep the same safety ratings) and increased insurance premiums=$$$. The development cost for a second or third version is spread across all models.
I'm all for increasing power output after I take delivery, but I'm willing to incur the cost. My 2.0L 4-banger 2005 Saab jumped to 260hp/285tq (from 210/220) with just a tune and drop-in K&N .... for $600. Worth it? Hell yeah.

And, there won't be any 'chipping' these, unless they run an OBDI system.
 

Jerry Greif

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Don't worry, if Elio doesn't offer a HO model the tuners will have everything you need to get the smoke rolling off the tires, 50 bucks says you will see somebody putting a V8 in one. I don't need 400 HP I just want an Elio. Let's just get the basic model off the assembly line first then after that they can start adding all the options.
 

jtmarten

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LOL I bet someone will drop a V8 into one, which would be absolute stupidity considering what would have to be done for that type of mod. It can't be transversely mounted like an Olds Aurora or Caddy NorthStar V8 (way too wide for the Elio chassis). Would have to be installed longitudinally, so now you need a trans hump, or a rear trans/diff out of a Corvette, which would require an additional rear wheel. Ehhh, somehow I don't see that happening.
The Elio would be fantastic with 90-110hp.
 

tenbsmith

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I understand the desire to keep it simple and get it out the door soon.

I want to see Elio succeed.

In my humble opinion, offering a higher HP option makes good business sense because it expands the potential customer base. Many cars have options for different engines with varying levels of hp/mpg while retaining the same safety, brakes, and tires. For example, you could get a 2001 Passat with 150hp or 200hp engines, but the same safety, brakes and probably the same tires. I've read elsewhere that many current motorcycles provide multiple Engine Control Unit (ECU) mapping options like economy, standard and sport. So, this could be achieved with minimal effort by Elio.

The most recent Elio blog says "The current spec for the horsepower is 55. We do have the ability, however, to move that number either up (over 60hp) or down to achieve our goal of 84 mpg highway." The idea is a version of the ECU programming tuned to stay within the capabilities of the IAV engine and provide a few more HP. For example going from 55hp to 65-70hp.
 

Rolf

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I understand the desire to keep it simple and get it out the door soon.

I want to see Elio succeed.

In my humble opinion, offering a higher HP option makes good business sense because it expands the potential customer base. Many cars have options for different engines with varying levels of hp/mpg while retaining the same safety, brakes, and tires. For example, you could get a 2001 Passat with 150hp or 200hp engines, but the same safety, brakes and probably the same tires. I've read elsewhere that many current motorcycles provide multiple Engine Control Unit (ECU) mapping options like economy, standard and sport. So, this could be achieved with minimal effort by Elio.

The most recent Elio blog says "The current spec for the horsepower is 55. We do have the ability, however, to move that number either up (over 60hp) or down to achieve our goal of 84 mpg highway." The idea is a version of the ECU programming tuned to stay within the capabilities of the IAV engine and provide a few more HP. For example going from 55hp to 65-70hp.

The whole point of the Elio is, to stay away as long as you can from greedy Oil companies and buying their gasoline and still enjoy the comfort of a car. Either you (plural) are part of the problem or part of the solution. I am with Elio, to be part of the solution, how about it?
 
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