Photo: Elio Motors
Those of you who supported Elio Motors with cash in its startup phase, you can rest assured as the company will start manufacturing the small economic trikes next year, according to its last report.
The money raised so far helped Elio Motors to buy a former GM manufacturing facility in Shreveport, Louisiana. The company now has a place to start the business, but it seems like the remaining funds are not enough to begin production. Luckily, the facility comes with extra equipment that can be sold.
"One of the keys to producing a low-cost vehicle is ensuring maximum efficiency in our manufacturing operations," said Paul Elio, CEO of Elio Motors. "Our team recently cleared an important first step by determining what existing equipment in Shreveport is mission-critical and what equipment can be sold. This level of detailed planning and execution is putting the processes in place to make Elio Motors a world-class manufacturer."
The small P4 weights only 1,250 lb (567 kg) and gets powered by a 3-cylinder gasoline engine, which translates into a fuel consumption of 49 mpg in the city and 84 mpg on the highway (4.8/2.8 l/100 km). And apart from the impressive mileage, the car will also offer a fully enclosed cabin fitted with electric windows, two seats, air conditioning, 3 airbags and a roll cage. ABS and stability control will also be offered as standard on the $6,800 car.
The vehicle prototype is currently on a country tour, hoping to attract more potential buyers. More than 34,000 people have made reservations for the vehicle by donating money to the company to help it get things moving.
"One of the keys to producing a low-cost vehicle is ensuring maximum efficiency in our manufacturing operations," said Paul Elio, CEO of Elio Motors. "Our team recently cleared an important first step by determining what existing equipment in Shreveport is mission-critical and what equipment can be sold. This level of detailed planning and execution is putting the processes in place to make Elio Motors a world-class manufacturer."
Make it, check it, sell it, buy it, drive it, like it, stop pollutin'
Elio and its manufacturing partner Comau now plan to contract 30 people to assist selling the unwanted equipment. After the new funds will complete the manufacturing process’ requirements, the company is expected to create more than 1,500 jobs in Shreveport and begin producing small 84 mpg three-wheelers next year.The small P4 weights only 1,250 lb (567 kg) and gets powered by a 3-cylinder gasoline engine, which translates into a fuel consumption of 49 mpg in the city and 84 mpg on the highway (4.8/2.8 l/100 km). And apart from the impressive mileage, the car will also offer a fully enclosed cabin fitted with electric windows, two seats, air conditioning, 3 airbags and a roll cage. ABS and stability control will also be offered as standard on the $6,800 car.
The vehicle prototype is currently on a country tour, hoping to attract more potential buyers. More than 34,000 people have made reservations for the vehicle by donating money to the company to help it get things moving.
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