Elio Motors, The Next Big Thing?!!...

[doviatt]

Originally Posted by Xist

A few very-talented members on here are working on their own three-wheelers.

What kind of reverse tadpole can you make for $6,800, counting labor!

Not exactly a fair question. All one-offs and prototypes are hugely expensive. The reduction comes in volume buys, repeatable automated processes to reduce labor. Your scenario combines the R&D budget with the manufacturing costs.

[doviatt]

Good point. This cost of this certification is still R&D expense though. The manufacturing costs don't reflect this as the compliance is designed in by this point.
Does anybody know the delta difference of EPA and Safety development costs between motorcycles and automobiles?
Geo/Suzuki produced cars for less than $10K back in their day. They complied with the automobile certs of their time.
Is there hope as this is a motorcycle?

[Arragonis]

Originally Posted by Xist

A few very-talented members on here are working on their own three-wheelers.

What kind of reverse tadpole can you make for $6,800, counting labor!

What is so wrong about the standard 4 wheel layout ?

[doviatt]

Originally Posted by Arragonis

What is so wrong about the standard 4 wheel layout ?

Nothing. That is the most stable configuration.
The issue is, at the point it has 4 wheels, it becomes an automobile and has to meet different more expensive and stringent safety standards.

[Arragonis]

Originally Posted by doviatt

Nothing. That is the most stable configuration.
The issue is, at the point it has 4 wheels, it becomes a production automobile and has to meet different more expensive and stringent safety standards.

So what are the different safety regulations ?

[doviatt]

Originally Posted by Arragonis

So what are the different safety regulations ?

Old Tele man's post sums it up from a general stand point.

Others here are more familiar than I, so I'll ask them to chime in.
I know of seatbelts (obvious one), airbag requirements, bumpers (front and rear) rated to certain speeds, crumple zones (multiple areas).....

[Econoguru]

It sounds pretty positive with the procurement of space in an old GM factory. I hope that someone brings these to the Uk. I'm not sure what isn't to like. I look forward to reading the reviews when its launched. The price seems unrealistic though....keep fingers crossed!

[Arragonis]

Originally Posted by Old Tele man

In USA,

Both are taxed here so both need preserving, especially at the marginal rate we have here

[roosterk0031]

Cars also have to have tire pressure monitoring system & electronic stability control, but ABS isn't, I doubt you can find a made since 2012 when ESC was required that doesn't have ABS. Would think most of the parts are shared.

[Arragonis]

Does the Mirage have a tyre pressure monitor ?