So here are my thoughts on the P5:
1.) I like the new prototype, but there are definitely minor refinements to be done which I'm sure will become more apparent on the E-series. Minor things such as nuts, bolts, clamps, fasteners will probably look like they belong to the Elio in the production models. I noticed everything seems awkward right now.
2.)Where the heck is the battery? I understand by law they have to remove it while at the SEMA show, but I'm trying to get an idea of where it would go. I don't even see a battery tray in any of the high resolution engine bay images I've looked at.
3.)The area right behind the exhaust is going to become black and sooty after some use. I would recommend constantly washing and waxing that area. I honestly wish it had pointed down to the ground.
4.)Fuel door indicator on the Elgin cluster still has not been fixed. Another minor detail which I assume will be fixed in production models.
5.) Cruise control: I wouldn't get hyped up that it will be standard equipment just because it is visible on the steering wheel. It was there on the P4 too. As I understand this is a stock steering wheel off of a camaro? Cruise is standard equipment on those, Elio just left the buttons there.
6.)The coolant, brake fluid, and clutch fluid reservoirs are obvious. Many questions pop up about where the windshield washer fluid is. I don't think this system is in the P5 since it's just a prototype. Another minor detail to be added later. What I recall is that EM cut costs by allowing you to directly screw in a bottle you purchase at a store. I'm not sure how well that would work given that all brands have different cap sizes and thread pitches. I, personally, will look into making my own reservoir by utilizing one from another car and building custom brackets. There seems to be plenty of room to work with in the engine bay.
7.) Airbox? Didn't see it. In some pics, it looks like they just attached a universal cone filter on the intake near the firewall. perhaps this system will also be further refined in the E-series.
8.) I appreciate the higher ground clearance.
9.)Tires: I'm all for the 135/80/15 tires on the front. I think they will help with fuel savings and last a long time given the Elio's light weight (see my math a few pages back). However, this tire isn't currently available on the market except for donut spares which are 55mph tires which obviously won't work. I hope availability of these tires will increase with the production of the Elio.
10.)Audio system: Doesn't look like there is any audio in the P5. When I had emailed EM, they said a pair of speakers would be in the dash. I see where they would sit, but it looks like ABS plastic blanks, not speaker grills. I'm not excited about MTX being the audio supplier company. Ew. That will be the first thing I rip out when/if I get mine.
Reply for anymore input or perhaps answers to some of my questions. I'm just brainstorming. #14552