I hope they pay more than $2K / month to their workers. $3-4K/month is probably more like it.
The prototypes look relatively easy to produce, and with volume, they can keep the price low.
Here's an ironic comparison: Tesla has taken a lot of heat for building an expensive model first, and Elio is being doubted for building an inexpensive model first. I think the Elio will still sell well, even if they have to price it at $8-9K. The ~$6K may be a loss leader - get them out on the road, and price the best options up high enough to make a profit on most sales.