I just reserved a spot in line for a new car, to be delivered sometime next year:
http://www.eliomotors.com
I can't figure out how to post a picture of it that is the right size, but it is a 3-wheeled car built on a chassis like the CamAm Spyder, with 2 wheels in front and one in back. Seats 2, has heat and ac and a radio and usb ports. Gas mileage is projected to be 49city/84highway. And it will cost $6,800.00 and no, I didn't miss a zero there. Under seven thousand dollars for a new car and it is licensed and insured as a motorcycle (read: cheaper)
So, I figure I've gambled $100 on less before, what it cost to make my reservation. Maybe by next summer I'll have a new ride.
I think it sounds like a great idea if you think it would work for you. Have you actually been able to see a model, or are you going on pictures & marketing? I remember years and years ago in Cincinnati seeing a Vespa, a 3 wheeled "car" made in Italy.
ReplyDeleteDo you have a motorcycle operators license? If it is licensed and registered as a motorcycle you would need a license, which here in Texas means you have to ride a motorcycle over a course designated by the policeman giving it, to pass the test. I have a motorcycle endorsement and an endorsement to drive a heavy vehicle (motorhome). Check it out there in Arizona.
ReplyDeleteI will probably have to get the motorcycle endorsement. One of the guys I work with is an instructor, so I plan to ask him, and then schedule a class if I don't have to actually have the motorcycle. It could be interesting to take the class in the Elio. :)
ReplyDeleteGypsy: I haven't actually seen one in person. I missed seeing one here by a few days because I found out about the showing too late. I'll take their word for it, as it basically is what I've been looking for. A few years ago another company in CA was working this same direction, but some bad financial decisions were made and the company folded. I know that until I have it in hand the same thing could happen here. My reservation is my vote that this is the direction I would like to see the car industry move. Hopefully I also get a car out of it.
ReplyDeleteI saw where there was a bill in the Arizona legislature that a motorcycle license would NOT be required for the Elio. I don't know if it passed or not but even if it did not the course will need to be the same as used by motorcycle trikes.
ReplyDeleteI will be watching and reading your experience and satisfaction closely. I have had an interest in the Elio for some month now also but not willing to put down a deposit of buy one yet.
I think the CA company that did not last made the Sparrow, an electric 3 wheel car that I think is now being built as a Cree. I followed the development of the Sparrow and a gas model for a number of years until the company folded. I think they might have made it IF they had stuck with electric and not tried to bring out the gas model.