The Talk Me Into Taking The Plunge Thread

[ncarter124]

I can understand this, that's how I was for months. I guess I just look at it as in investment I could easily lose. Overall I think it will happen, but there are no guarantees. I see it like this, with people like me it might happen, without people like me it WON'T happen. Not saying anything against those that aren't 'all in' because I can understand the hesitation, believe me... but in the end I just felt like it was something I had to be a part of in order to hopefully help it succeed.

 

[larryboy]

I just can't for the life of me, commit to a non-refundable deposit on a new vehicle type from a new company. What's to say the company won't run into some type of brick wall they can't get around and they end up folding before they even get started? What's to say there aren't going to be many, many problems with this new vehicle type with a new un-time tested engine and driveline components? That's just the vehicle...with so many people already on the waiting list, it's going to take years for the company to be able to meet demand for just those people...think about how long someone is going to have to wait to get one if they're not on the list. The only way they get around this is if they have an automotive industry type of assembly line set up to build these things. Like many others, this vehicle is very intriguing to me, but I can't help but to think about how this company will get around and/or over the typical hurdles that all new businesses have to deal with.

You need to read a few of the posts in the forum and find out a little more about the total picture before you despair. First of all; they do have an "automotive industry type of assembly line". Second, most of the components are "off the shelf" and have been tested in other applications. Third, I don't think a large number of people on a waiting list means that the car will not be produced. Quite the opposite. Finally, have you ever bought stock in a company that was just starting up or just starting a new product line. If you put down your 1K deposit you have the potential to make a 50% "profit" in the first year. I think you should "think about how long someone is going to have to wait to get one if they're not on the list" and put your money down! Larry

 

[Jeff Porter]

I just can't for the life of me, commit to a non-refundable deposit on a new vehicle type from a new company. What's to say the company won't run into some type of brick wall they can't get around and they end up folding before they even get started? What's to say there aren't going to be many, many problems with this new vehicle type with a new un-time tested engine and driveline components? That's just the vehicle...with so many people already on the waiting list, it's going to take years for the company to be able to meet demand for just those people...think about how long someone is going to have to wait to get one if they're not on the list. The only way they get around this is if they have an automotive industry type of assembly line set up to build these things. Like many others, this vehicle is very intriguing to me, but I can't help but to think about how this company will get around and/or over the typical hurdles that all new businesses have to deal with.

Hey Grampi, welcome to the forum! First, want to let you know that I respect your opinion, and welcome you to participate in the forum.

Elio Motors does have refundable deposits at this time. Is it possible that if the company goes under, that it might be 2-3 yrs after that before the refundable deposits are returned? Sure, it's possible.

If you don't feel comfortable making a reservation, that's ok. Do what's in your best interest.

EM has stated that the first year of production will be used to fulfill reservations. They'll cap the reservations if the number is getting bigger than their estimates of first year production. Yes, it will be during the 2nd year of production that a person can go and buy an Elio from the store. This is a point of persuasion by EM: if you are ok with waiting, that's great. If you want one before the 2nd year, get a reservation.

Agreed, there are lots of hurdles to overcome. Some we are aware of, some we are not. Many of us have faith and want to see EM succeed. :-)

 

[outsydthebox]

I just can't for the life of me, commit to a non-refundable deposit on a new vehicle type from a new company. What's to say the company won't run into some type of brick wall they can't get around and they end up folding before they even get started? What's to say there aren't going to be many, many problems with this new vehicle type with a new un-time tested engine and driveline components? That's just the vehicle...with so many people already on the waiting list, it's going to take years for the company to be able to meet demand for just those people...think about how long someone is going to have to wait to get one if they're not on the list. The only way they get around this is if they have an automotive industry type of assembly line set up to build these things. Like many others, this vehicle is very intriguing to me, but I can't help but to think about how this company will get around and/or over the typical hurdles that all new businesses have to deal with.

Again, Welcome to the Group!
I smile as I read your post because, I think most of us have "been there." Take your time and do your research. I would like to address some of your concerns: 1)Engine: It is closely "based" on a time tested design (Suzuki swift/Geo Metro) only with 30 years of improvements. Designed & engineered by AIG, a company with a good history. 2) Years till delivery: The math has been done here with some very conservative numbers (estimates), and I am comfortable seeing 40K Elios made within the first year of production. 3)"Automotive industry type of assembly line": That is exactly what "Elio Motors" has...well, only 1 million square feet of the Shreveport (old Hummer factory), along with the assembly line & robotics. 4)"Hurdles": I have found myself (repeatedly) "impressed" with the hurdles that have been overcome. EM is also taking lessons from companies that have failed in recent years.
There is no question, there is a risk. I have decided, For me, It is one that I am willing to take. I also won't die if I loose the money. My choice. I also researched it before I made my choice.
Take your time & enjoy the journey!

 

[JP]

Will you be that sad about losing 100 bucks if they go under? You may lose 100 but you may not and then you get an elio in the first year of production.

 

[OCS12]

Again, Welcome to the Group!
I smile as I read your post because, I think most of us have "been there." Take your time and do your research. I would like to address some of your concerns: 1)Engine: It is closely "based" on a time tested design (Suzuki swift/Geo Metro) only with 30 years of improvements. Designed & engineered by AIG, a company with a good history. 2) Years till delivery: The math has been done here with some very conservative numbers (estimates), and I am comfortable seeing 40K Elios made within the first year of production. 3)"Automotive industry type of assembly line": That is exactly what "Elio Motors" has...well, only 1 million square feet of the Shreveport (old Hummer factory), along with the assembly line & robotics. 4)"Hurdles": I have found myself (repeatedly) "impressed" with the hurdles that have been overcome. EM is also taking lessons from companies that have failed in recent years.
There is no question, there is a risk. I have decided, For me, It is one that I am willing to take. I also won't die if I loose the money. My choice. I also researched it before I made my choice.
Take your time & enjoy the journey!

Just to be clear, I'm all in, so you know what I'm hoping for, but I'm a realist. The Elio will probably happen, but it's going to take probably at least a year longer than what they're telling us, cost more, and those first year production numbers are pie in the sky dreaming.

All I have to base my opinion on is that I design and build engine assembly lines for a living at a company with a far bigger budget than Elio. These things take time to get done right.

I'm not a naysayer, just realistic. Go Elio!

 

[outsydthebox]

Will you be that sad about losing 100 bucks if they go under? You may lose 100 but you may not and then you get an elio in the first year of production.

It's more than the money to me. I would feel worse about EM folding. It would mean that greed and corruption WINS!

 

[wjdom]

I just can't for the life of me, commit to a non-refundable deposit on a new vehicle type from a new company. What's to say the company won't run into some type of brick wall they can't get around and they end up folding before they even get started? What's to say there aren't going to be many, many problems with this new vehicle type with a new un-time tested engine and driveline components? That's just the vehicle...with so many people already on the waiting list, it's going to take years for the company to be able to meet demand for just those people...think about how long someone is going to have to wait to get one if they're not on the list. The only way they get around this is if they have an automotive industry type of assembly line set up to build these things. Like many others, this vehicle is very intriguing to me, but I can't help but to think about how this company will get around and/or over the typical hurdles that all new businesses have to deal with.

I understand your feelings, I have been on the horns of this dilemma for the past month. I am all in for $100 and am contemplating going all in for $1000, but I know if I do and the project fails I will be kicking my butt for years, on the other hand if I don't and the project succeeds I will be kicking my butt for a year for being near the end of the line....... I will wait till the end of the month in hopes of getting some news from Elio that could push me over this hump. I Soooo want this car and hope it works out.

 

[aknaten]

I look at this a little like a reverse lottery: there is a SMALL chance I could loose whatever I put down but there is a GOOD chance I will realize a 50 percent return on my money and will have a fuel efficient, fun to drive vehicle.

 

[zelio]

I just can't for the life of me, commit to a non-refundable deposit on a new vehicle type from a new company. What's to say the company won't run into some type of brick wall they can't get around and they end up folding before they even get started? What's to say there aren't going to be many, many problems with this new vehicle type with a new un-time tested engine and driveline components? That's just the vehicle...with so many people already on the waiting list, it's going to take years for the company to be able to meet demand for just those people...think about how long someone is going to have to wait to get one if they're not on the list. The only way they get around this is if they have an automotive industry type of assembly line set up to build these things. Like many others, this vehicle is very intriguing to me, but I can't help but to think about how this company will get around and/or over the typical hurdles that all new businesses have to deal with.

What if you make a reservation and the next day something terrible happens to you. I will not encourage you to make a reservation but do ask that you respect my decision to have one. What ifs are for people who are unwilling to live life to the fullest. That is my totally biased and completely not humble opinion. You enjoy your worries and what ifs. I will enjoy my Elio. Z

Oh, and by the way, welcome from Oregon. I hope you enjoy the forum.