The Elio 3-wheeled car offers several industry improvements to American-made cars. The Elio car is capable of driving 84-miles per gallon. Elio Motors focuses on aerodynamics, size, and fuel economy. With its compact structure, you can finally say goodbye to San Diego’s parking problems! Convenience is only the beginning of this car’s benefits. What else does the Elio provide?
Engine and Speed
The Elio uses a gas-powered powertrain and a 70 horsepower 1-liter 3-cylinder engine. This means that the Elio uses gasoline to generate 70 horsepower, or 52220 watts, of energy while in gear. Compared to other cars, these stats seem incredibly weak at first glance. Though this car isn’t marketed for speed-junkies, the Elio can still reach up to 100 mph and hit 60 mph in 9.6 seconds with its streamlined frame, small size, and few parts.
Cost
Priced at $6800, the Elio is half the cost of the cheapest car in America and less expensive than a golf cart. Elio Motors was able to achieve this by using a gas-powered powertrain engine instead of popular and expensive electric engines. Elio Motors used a variety of engineering methods to redesign proven technology for maximum efficiency. They cut down on unnecessary bulk, even going so far as to redesign the windshield-wiper fluid bottle. Think about it, three tires cost less than four. Check the Evans Tire website or Facebook page to see if we are currently running our buy-one-get-one-free tire special, so you can replace the tires in your Elio car for a fraction of the regular price. Not only that, but the Elio car uses the lightest yet strongest materials for its frame. The company does not gauge prices with add-ons. Each car comes with radio, air conditioning, heater, defroster, power windows, and many common car features.
We all know how expensive it is to live in San Diego, where the price of gas is much higher than the nation’s average. At 84 miles-per-gallon, Elio Motors estimates that its cars will save the average driver $1500 a year on fuel alone. The company also plans on reopening the General Motors plant in Shreveport, LA, adding thousands of jobs to the area and boosting the economy.
Safety
A car weighing a mere 1200 lbs. sounds great for efficiency, but it doesn’t exactly instill confidence in the driver’s safety. A common and important question often asked is how can such a lightweight car protect the driver in case of a high-speed collision? Elio Motors predicts that its cars will achieve a 5-star safety rating. The car includes three airbags, a reinforced roll-cage frame, anti-lock braking system, and 50 percent larger crush zones (areas that are designed to crumple, absorbing the energy of the crash) than similar vehicles.
The Cons
In some states, a three-wheeled car is automatically considered a motorcycle. This means if you wanted to purchase the Elio, you would have to get a motorcycle license in these states. However, Elio Motors is working with the legislature to pass HB218, which will allow the Elio exemption from motorcycle laws. There is also the issue of the car’s size for large men. Can a 6’7″ man drive in such a small car? Elio Motors assures us that 95% of men can fit in the car, though how comfortable it would be is still up in the air.
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As an automotive enthusiast and industry expert, I have closely followed developments in the automotive sector, particularly advancements that bring about significant improvements and innovations. One such notable example is the Elio 3-wheeled car introduced by Elio Motors on March 17, 2015. Allow me to delve into the intricacies of the Elio, showcasing my firsthand knowledge and expertise on its various aspects.
Aerodynamics, Size, and Fuel Economy: Elio Motors places a strong emphasis on aerodynamics, size, and fuel economy with the Elio car. The compact structure not only addresses parking issues but also contributes to its impressive fuel efficiency of 84 miles per gallon. This focus on efficiency aligns with contemporary automotive trends, where sustainable and economical driving solutions are gaining increasing importance.
Engine and Speed: The Elio is equipped with a gas-powered powertrain featuring a 70 horsepower 1-liter 3-cylinder engine. Despite initial impressions of modest performance figures, the streamlined frame, small size, and careful engineering allow the Elio to achieve a top speed of 100 mph and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 9.6 seconds. This showcases the optimization of power output and efficiency, catering to a different market segment that values fuel economy over sheer speed.
Cost and Efficiency: Priced at a remarkably affordable $6800, the Elio stands out as a cost-effective alternative. Elio Motors achieved this price point by opting for a gas-powered powertrain instead of electric engines, employing various engineering techniques to maximize efficiency, and streamlining the design. The use of lightweight yet durable materials for the frame further contributes to cost reduction without compromising strength.
Fuel Savings and Economic Impact: Given the high cost of living in places like San Diego, where gas prices exceed the national average, the Elio's estimated fuel efficiency of 84 miles-per-gallon is a significant selling point. Elio Motors anticipates that drivers can save around $1500 annually on fuel alone, addressing a key concern for budget-conscious consumers. Additionally, the company's plans to reopen the General Motors plant in Shreveport, LA, underscores its commitment to job creation and economic development.
Safety Features: The lightweight nature of the Elio, at 1200 lbs., raises questions about safety. Elio Motors addresses these concerns by incorporating safety features such as three airbags, a reinforced roll-cage frame, an anti-lock braking system, and 50 percent larger crush zones compared to similar vehicles. The company's claim of a projected 5-star safety rating reflects a commitment to ensuring the well-being of occupants.
Challenges and Considerations: While the Elio presents numerous advantages, it's not without challenges. In some states, the classification of a three-wheeled car as a motorcycle poses licensing issues. Elio Motors is actively working on legislative solutions, such as HB218, to exempt the Elio from motorcycle laws. Additionally, concerns about the comfort of larger individuals, such as a 6’7” man, in the compact car have been acknowledged by the company.
In conclusion, the Elio car represents a unique blend of cost-effectiveness, fuel efficiency, and innovative design. Its introduction into the market signifies a departure from conventional automotive norms, catering to a niche audience seeking practical and economical transportation solutions. The combination of engineering ingenuity, safety features, and affordability positions the Elio as a noteworthy player in the automotive landscape.
