Quote:
Originally Posted by Old Mechanic
Unless Elio gets big bucks from the GOVT, it ain't gonna happen, and even if he gets funds from any source it will not sell for $6800.
|
It would be nice, from a public policy perspective, to see that happen. We spend government money on profitable companies that build gas guzzlers to finance their efforts at fuel efficiency. We spend government money on the drillers, refiners and transporters of the oil. But we can't toss some money at a company that wants to focus on efficient vehicles. Because it might make a profit. Which is what the companies we're already throwing money at... are already doing without our tax money.
Elio is being crucified because he isn't likely to hit a $6800 out the door price for his new car, but Washington will give you up to $7500 in tax credits if you buy a Volt and you can get into the HOV lanes driving solo. But nobody wants to throw money at a car meant for solo commuting that'll get better mileage than a Volt. Why? Because public policy here isn't about encouraging efficiency, it's about funneling public money to established companies.
Annnoying, isn't it?