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Doubts...to Buy Or Not To Buy...

Brainmatter

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I am definitely still on the skeptical side even though I was optimistic enough to make a non-refundable reservation. I am skeptical not because I don't believe it can be done but because it is very difficult to successfully start a new business of this type and actually make it into production let alone still be in operation five years later.
I hope they are heavily exploring the export option as this kind of vehicles would sell very well in China. Cars are very expensive in China and the government there wants more fuel and emissions efficiency as well as size really matters in a country with 1.3 billion people. Ironically the Chinese really prefer American made products as they reflect a higher standard of quality so those who can afford it are willing to pay a premium price to get American made products instead of Chinese crap.
Wouldn't it be ironic if we could have several thousand Americans working to produce a bunch of Elio's headed for China. I would love to see that especially if it keeps the Elio at a very affordable price for us!
You just recognize the pitfalls. You put up money though. That does not make you a skeptic, (a true skeptic would not put up money) it makes you a realist.
I too recognize the pitfalls. At this point I see Elios chance of bringing a viable vehicle to market is as good as it gets: about 50/50. But this country needs this. People need this car. So I did what I could to see that it does make it. It cost me $1000.

Think waayyy outside the 'just about me' box here: What could a vehicle like this do in a car share situation ( https://relayrides.com http://www.zipcar.com/ ). How about for lower income folks, single parents, those on a fixed budget? Literally endless scenarios where a vehicle like this is not just wanted, but needed.

Win, lose or draw I see it as one of the best purchases (donations?) I've made. Even if in the end it is just to see what is not possible.
 

zelio

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Think waayyy outside the 'just about me' box here: What could a vehicle like this do in a car share situation ( https://relayrides.com http://www.zipcar.com/ ). How about for lower income folks, single parents, those on a fixed budget? Literally endless scenarios where a vehicle like this is not just wanted, but needed.

Win, lose or draw I see it as one of the best purchases (donations?) I've made. Even if in the end it is just to see what is not possible.
Actually, I am one of those lower income people on a fixed budget. I had assumed that once my 1999 Camry (214,000 mi) dies I would have to live without a car. Elio has given me a reason to see differently. That is why I made my $100 "I'm all in reservation" last Saturday. It also gives me a way to up the ante as I can before the car is in production. As far as I am concerned, I now own my 2015 orange Elio. It is in my best interest to increase my reservation and do my part to make sure this happens. Besides, the Elio is cute and looks fun to drive. How could I resist. LOL Z
 

Brainmatter

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Actually, I am one of those lower income people on a fixed budget. I had assumed that once my 1999 Camry (214,000 mi) dies I would have to live without a car. Elio has given me a reason to see differently. That is why I made my $100 "I'm all in reservation" last Saturday. It also gives me a way to up the ante as I can before the car is in production. As far as I am concerned, I now own my 2015 orange Elio. It is in my best interest to increase my reservation and do my part to make sure this happens. Besides, the Elio is cute and looks fun to drive. How could I resist. LOL Z
Hopefully this is seen to fruition and there are many, many more people who will be able to realize that personal transportation is no longer lost to them for whatever reason. It can be a game changer for a lot of folks. Especially once these get into the used market. Ultra cheap, reliable, efficient transportation is not just something for India.
 

Jerry Greif

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Hopefully this is seen to fruition and there are many, many more people who will be able to realize that personal transportation is no longer lost to them for whatever reason. It can be a game changer for a lot of folks. Especially once these get into the used market. Ultra cheap, reliable, efficient transportation is not just something for India.
I agree that this will be a dream come true for everyone that needs low cost RELIABLE transportation.
 
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