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Elio three wheeled concept car

retroxler58retroxler58 Member Posts: 32,693 ✭✭✭
edited August 2017 in General Discussion
https://www.eliomotors.com/

Anyone been following this new car design?

I've been following it now about three years, and it seems that been drawn out far too long. The 'promise' was that it would be at market for a base price of $6,800.00 back in mid 2015. Then the base price rose slightly with a market date of mid-2016... And now the base price is $7,450.00 with a market date of... ???

If it ever makes it to market, it may be a big boost for the Shreveport, Louisiana economy as well as the American work-force across the auto industry. BUT... That's one big IF!

All along, there has been a big push to get 'start-up' money from potential buyer/owners in the form of a purchase credit. Well I'm sure it takes some serious cash to come to market with a new car design. But, good lord... Come on already!

Grandma was slower, but hell, she was near on 94 years old!!!

Peeks...

02-523x406.jpg

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Comments

  • Smitty500magSmitty500mag Member Posts: 13,623 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    Great idea. Just remove the front wheels and it can be used as a casket.
  • HandLoadHandLoad Member Posts: 15,998
    edited November -1
    I was tempted, but doubt it will be roomy enough.

    Presently, I am really interested in the Bollinger, all-electric 4 X 4, looks a bit like a Land Rover.

    https://www.foxnews.com/auto/2017/07/28/bollinger-motors-b-1-is-old-school-truck-with-high-tech-twist.html
  • 84Bravo184Bravo1 Member Posts: 10,461 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    Okay I'll say it.

    I'd like it for an economical commuter vehicle to stay out of the weather.

    I'm a long time Motorcycle rider.

    Would not even consider driving my BMW F650 (dual sport) @ 4:45 am up here in the Mtns due to numerous up close and personal Deer encounters in the fog.

    I do 66 mi./day Country rural curvy roads 90% of the way.

    Coffin like? Can't be any worse than riding a bike.

    Which I have done. 10K mi. per year since I was 15. (Started on a RD 350 two stroke back in 1976.)


    Flame on.
  • retroxler58retroxler58 Member Posts: 32,693 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by Smitty500mag
    Great idea. Just remove the front wheels and it can be used as a casket.


    They've gone through crash testing and have really high marks on survivability. Pretty impressive actually. As good as open cockpit (convertible) designs and better than two-wheeled cycles.

    Elio also spear-headed legislation to remove helmet requirements in the law for three wheeled vehicles in all 50 states, as long as the vehicle is enclosed. Otherwise, this three-wheeled vehicle would be classified as a cycle (NON four wheeled car).
  • shilowarshilowar Member Posts: 38,811 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by 84Bravo1
    Okay I'll say it.

    I'd like it for an economical commuter vehicle to stay out of the weather.

    I'm a long time Motorcycle rider.

    Would not even consider driving my BMW F650 (dual sport) @ 4:45 am up here in the Mtns due to numerous up close and personal Deer encounters in the fog.

    I do 66 mi./day Country rural curvy roads 90% of the way.

    Coffin like? Can't be any worse than riding a bike.

    Which I have done. 10K mi. per year since I was 15. (Started on a RD 350 two stroke back in 1976.)


    Flame on.


    That Elio might be fun if it has a Hyabusa power plant in it! [:D]
  • retroxler58retroxler58 Member Posts: 32,693 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by 84Bravo1
    Okay I'll say it.

    I'd like it for an economical commuter vehicle to stay out of the weather.

    I'm a long time Motorcycle rider.

    Would not even consider driving my BMW F650 (dual sport) @ 4:45 am up here in the Mtns due to numerous up close and personal Deer encounters in the fog.

    I do 66 mi./day Country rural curvy roads 90% of the way.

    Coffin like? Can't be any worse than riding a bike.

    Which I have done. 10K mi. per year since I was 15. (Started on a RD 350 two stroke back in 1976.)


    Flame on.
    My thoughts exactly. I love a bike... But, as old age is taking over, riding a bike 365/ days a year just isn't the same anymore. Gas economy is supposed to be in the high 80's. Best I ever got on a bike was low 40's. Plus you won't get wet OR cold... [^]
  • 1911a1-fan1911a1-fan Member Posts: 51,193 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    very bad mojo putting the wife directly behind you in an enclosed space [;)]
  • HandLoadHandLoad Member Posts: 15,998
    edited November -1
    Engineering wise, I admire and think about the supermiler machines often. But, since I no longer have the 108-Mile roundtrip commute, and have retired, I no longer need a supermiler.

    So, Since I live in Washington State, and am retired, a 4 X 4 for tooling around in the mountains and woods a couple weeks a Year, along with maybe 5000 miles a Year going for Breakfast is all I need.
  • 84Bravo184Bravo1 Member Posts: 10,461 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by shilowar
    quote:Originally posted by 84Bravo1
    Okay I'll say it.

    I'd like it for an economical commuter vehicle to stay out of the weather.

    I'm a long time Motorcycle rider.

    Would not even consider driving my BMW F650 (dual sport) @ 4:45 am up here in the Mtns due to numerous up close and personal Deer encounters in the fog.

    I do 66 mi./day Country rural curvy roads 90% of the way.

    Coffin like? Can't be any worse than riding a bike.

    Which I have done. 10K mi. per year since I was 15. (Started on a RD 350 two stroke back in 1976.)


    Flame on.


    That Elio might be fun if it has a Hyabusa power plant in it! [:D]



    I'd agree Shilo, but you can hop up most anything. (Which I have done my whole life.)

    I am curious as to the power plant though.

    I first became aware of this vehicle, when a similar post was made here on GBGD months ago.

    My current commuter vehicle is a Nissan Versa 1.5L hatchback. Gets 38 mpg, and handles like a go cart.

    I've got a tricked out Jeep for when I am off, or winter hits here in the Mtns.

    Hit a deer with it (Versa) last Feb. $6k in damage. Would have been a fatal Bike accident.

    People ask me "why don't you ride your bike to work?" I just laugh.

    Everytime I see a bike on the road at that time of the morning, I say a silent Prayer "Go with God," for them.


    I'd ride/drive that Elio.
  • retroxler58retroxler58 Member Posts: 32,693 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by 84Bravo1
    quote:Originally posted by shilowar
    quote:Originally posted by 84Bravo1
    Okay I'll say it.

    I'd like it for an economical commuter vehicle to stay out of the weather.

    I'm a long time Motorcycle rider.

    Would not even consider driving my BMW F650 (dual sport) @ 4:45 am up here in the Mtns due to numerous up close and personal Deer encounters in the fog.

    I do 66 mi./day Country rural curvy roads 90% of the way.

    Coffin like? Can't be any worse than riding a bike.

    Which I have done. 10K mi. per year since I was 15. (Started on a RD 350 two stroke back in 1976.)


    Flame on.


    That Elio might be fun if it has a Hyabusa power plant in it! [:D]



    I'd agree Shilo, but you can hop up most anything. (Which I have done my whole life.)

    I am curious as to the power plant though.

    I first became aware of this vehicle, when a similar post was made here on GBGD months ago.

    Thanks.
    It's got a purpose designed/built three cylinder automotive type engine in it from IAV Automotive engineering out of Germany (Volkswagen group).
  • retroxler58retroxler58 Member Posts: 32,693 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    From a mechanical engineering perspective... It's very interesting.

    From an economical perspective... It's intriguing.

    From a prospective ownership perspective... Where the hell is it at!?
  • retroxler58retroxler58 Member Posts: 32,693 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    Technical Specifications (currently):
    Technical Features include:
    Targeted 84 MPG Highway / 49 MPG City
    Elio Safety Management System that includes three airbags, unibody frame, Anti-Lock Braking System, and Electronic Stability Control
    Fuel-injected, SOHC gas-powered, Variable Valve Lift, 3 cyl., .9 liter, liquid-cooled, automotive engine
    Front Engine / Front-Wheel Drive
    8-Gallon Tank
    Regular Unleaded Fuel / 87 Octane
    Range up to 672 miles
    Standard 5-speed manual or optional automated manual transmission (AMT)
    120amp alternator
    Top speed over 100 MPH
    0-60 speed in projected 10.8 seconds
    55 HP and 55 LB-FT of torque
    11:1 Compression
    Tire Sizes: Front: 135/80 R15 / Rear: 175/65 R15 with Tire Deflation Detection System
    Exterior measurements:
    Overall Length: 160.5?
    Overall Width: 75.5?
    Overall Height: 54.2?
    Front Wheel Track: 66.8? (center rim to center rim)
    Wheelbase: 110? (center of front wheels to center of rear wheel)
    Ground Clearance: 5.75? / 15 degree approach angle
    Interior measurements, seats 2 in tandem:
    Headroom: Driver 39.8? Passenger 36.4?
    Seat width: Driver 20.6? Passenger 25.3?
    Interior Shoulder Width: 27.8?
    Front seat Legroom: 42.7?
    Rear seat Legroom: 33.1?
    Trunk Size: 27? x 14? x 10? / Rear seat folds down for additional space
    Standard Convenience Features include:
    Air Conditioning / Heater / 2 adjustable vents / Defrost front and side windows
    6-way manual driver seat / Cloth
    AM/FM stereo radio
    Power windows
    Power door lock
    Cruise control
    Odometer / Trip computer
    Interior light
    Rear seat LATCH safety system; rear seat USB power port
    Disc brakes with Hill Start assist
    Auxilary power - cigarette lighter 12v, additional USB port
    3 yr / 36,000 mile warranty
    Pep Boys is the anticipated official service provider
    Parking brake
    Plus hundreds of options like leather seats, stereo upgrades, radio add-on, etc.
    Colors:
    Rocket Silver, Sour Apple, Creamsicle, Red Hot, True Blue, Licorice, and Marshmallow
  • retroxler58retroxler58 Member Posts: 32,693 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    As I understand it...

    The low base price is due to using current technology and then applying it.
    Nothing new in this design except that there's a missing fourth leg and tandem seating for two (less drag).
  • 84Bravo184Bravo1 Member Posts: 10,461 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by retroxler58
    Technical Specifications (currently):
    Technical Features include:
    Targeted 84 MPG Highway / 49 MPG City
    Elio Safety Management System that includes three airbags, unibody frame, Anti-Lock Braking System, and Electronic Stability Control
    Fuel-injected, SOHC gas-powered, Variable Valve Lift, 3 cyl., .9 liter, liquid-cooled, automotive engine
    Front Engine / Front-Wheel Drive
    8-Gallon Tank
    Regular Unleaded Fuel / 87 Octane
    Range up to 672 miles
    Standard 5-speed manual or optional automated manual transmission (AMT)
    120amp alternator
    Top speed over 100 MPH
    0-60 speed in projected 10.8 seconds
    55 HP and 55 LB-FT of torque
    11:1 Compression
    Tire Sizes: Front: 135/80 R15 / Rear: 175/65 R15 with Tire Deflation Detection System
    Exterior measurements:
    Overall Length: 160.5?
    Overall Width: 75.5?
    Overall Height: 54.2?
    Front Wheel Track: 66.8? (center rim to center rim)
    Wheelbase: 110? (center of front wheels to center of rear wheel)
    Ground Clearance: 5.75? / 15 degree approach angle
    Interior measurements, seats 2 in tandem:
    Headroom: Driver 39.8? Passenger 36.4?
    Seat width: Driver 20.6? Passenger 25.3?
    Interior Shoulder Width: 27.8?
    Front seat Legroom: 42.7?
    Rear seat Legroom: 33.1?
    Trunk Size: 27? x 14? x 10? / Rear seat folds down for additional space
    Standard Convenience Features include:
    Air Conditioning / Heater / 2 adjustable vents / Defrost front and side windows
    6-way manual driver seat / Cloth
    AM/FM stereo radio
    Power windows
    Power door lock
    Cruise control
    Odometer / Trip computer
    Interior light
    Rear seat LATCH safety system; rear seat USB power port
    Disc brakes with Hill Start assist
    Auxilary power - cigarette lighter 12v, additional USB port
    3 yr / 36,000 mile warranty
    Pep Boys is the anticipated official service provider
    Parking brake
    Plus hundreds of options like leather seats, stereo upgrades, radio add-on, etc.
    Colors:
    Rocket Silver, Sour Apple, Creamsicle, Red Hot, True Blue, Licorice, and Marshmallow



    I'd be all over that.

    I'd sell/trade my BMW in a Heartbeat for it.

    I don't ride it anymore anyway. Too many close calls over the years of riding a bike. Been down many times. I'm done with it.

    This Elio, I'd ride/drive, like I have stated previously.

    Bring it to market Guys.

    There are Buyers out tbere, ready for such a ride.

    I could care less what People say. I'd own it.
  • 1911a1-fan1911a1-fan Member Posts: 51,193 ✭✭
    edited November -1
  • retroxler58retroxler58 Member Posts: 32,693 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by 1911a1-fan
    7a8ac5ede4b5da243ae667cb7b5081ef.jpg
    Oh YEAH! [:p][:p][:p][:D][^]
  • select-fireselect-fire Member Posts: 69,527 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    Stuff a 502 cube under the hood and then we will talk.
  • retroxler58retroxler58 Member Posts: 32,693 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    Don't think Dale's interested select...
  • shilowarshilowar Member Posts: 38,811 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by 84Bravo1
    quote:Originally posted by retroxler58
    Technical Specifications (currently):
    Technical Features include:
    Targeted 84 MPG Highway / 49 MPG City
    Elio Safety Management System that includes three airbags, unibody frame, Anti-Lock Braking System, and Electronic Stability Control
    Fuel-injected, SOHC gas-powered, Variable Valve Lift, 3 cyl., .9 liter, liquid-cooled, automotive engine
    Front Engine / Front-Wheel Drive
    8-Gallon Tank
    Regular Unleaded Fuel / 87 Octane
    Range up to 672 miles
    Standard 5-speed manual or optional automated manual transmission (AMT)
    120amp alternator
    Top speed over 100 MPH
    0-60 speed in projected 10.8 seconds
    55 HP and 55 LB-FT of torque
    11:1 Compression
    Tire Sizes: Front: 135/80 R15 / Rear: 175/65 R15 with Tire Deflation Detection System
    Exterior measurements:
    Overall Length: 160.5?
    Overall Width: 75.5?
    Overall Height: 54.2?
    Front Wheel Track: 66.8? (center rim to center rim)
    Wheelbase: 110? (center of front wheels to center of rear wheel)
    Ground Clearance: 5.75? / 15 degree approach angle
    Interior measurements, seats 2 in tandem:
    Headroom: Driver 39.8? Passenger 36.4?
    Seat width: Driver 20.6? Passenger 25.3?
    Interior Shoulder Width: 27.8?
    Front seat Legroom: 42.7?
    Rear seat Legroom: 33.1?
    Trunk Size: 27? x 14? x 10? / Rear seat folds down for additional space
    Standard Convenience Features include:
    Air Conditioning / Heater / 2 adjustable vents / Defrost front and side windows
    6-way manual driver seat / Cloth
    AM/FM stereo radio
    Power windows
    Power door lock
    Cruise control
    Odometer / Trip computer
    Interior light
    Rear seat LATCH safety system; rear seat USB power port
    Disc brakes with Hill Start assist
    Auxilary power - cigarette lighter 12v, additional USB port
    3 yr / 36,000 mile warranty
    Pep Boys is the anticipated official service provider
    Parking brake
    Plus hundreds of options like leather seats, stereo upgrades, radio add-on, etc.
    Colors:
    Rocket Silver, Sour Apple, Creamsicle, Red Hot, True Blue, Licorice, and Marshmallow



    I'd be all over that.

    I'd sell/trade my BMW in a Heartbeat for it.

    I don't ride it anymore anyway. Too many close calls over the years of riding a bike. Been down many times. I'm done with it.

    This Elio, I'd ride/drive, like I have stated previously.

    Bring it to market Guys.

    There are Buyers out tbere, ready for such a ride.

    I could care less what People say. I'd own it.


    Way too under powered....55 HP...0-60 10.8 seconds....a motorcycle engine would be way better IMO
  • Rocky RaabRocky Raab Member Posts: 14,497 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    I'd feel right at home in a "cockpitish" little thing like that, I think.
    I may be a bit crazy - but I didn't drive myself.
  • retroxler58retroxler58 Member Posts: 32,693 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by shilowar
    quote:Originally posted by 84Bravo1
    quote:Originally posted by retroxler58
    Technical Specifications (currently):
    Technical Features include:
    Targeted 84 MPG Highway / 49 MPG City
    Elio Safety Management System that includes three airbags, unibody frame, Anti-Lock Braking System, and Electronic Stability Control
    Fuel-injected, SOHC gas-powered, Variable Valve Lift, 3 cyl., .9 liter, liquid-cooled, automotive engine
    Front Engine / Front-Wheel Drive
    8-Gallon Tank
    Regular Unleaded Fuel / 87 Octane
    Range up to 672 miles
    Standard 5-speed manual or optional automated manual transmission (AMT)
    120amp alternator
    Top speed over 100 MPH
    0-60 speed in projected 10.8 seconds
    55 HP and 55 LB-FT of torque
    11:1 Compression
    Tire Sizes: Front: 135/80 R15 / Rear: 175/65 R15 with Tire Deflation Detection System
    Exterior measurements:
    Overall Length: 160.5?
    Overall Width: 75.5?
    Overall Height: 54.2?
    Front Wheel Track: 66.8? (center rim to center rim)
    Wheelbase: 110? (center of front wheels to center of rear wheel)
    Ground Clearance: 5.75? / 15 degree approach angle
    Interior measurements, seats 2 in tandem:
    Headroom: Driver 39.8? Passenger 36.4?
    Seat width: Driver 20.6? Passenger 25.3?
    Interior Shoulder Width: 27.8?
    Front seat Legroom: 42.7?
    Rear seat Legroom: 33.1?
    Trunk Size: 27? x 14? x 10? / Rear seat folds down for additional space
    Standard Convenience Features include:
    Air Conditioning / Heater / 2 adjustable vents / Defrost front and side windows
    6-way manual driver seat / Cloth
    AM/FM stereo radio
    Power windows
    Power door lock
    Cruise control
    Odometer / Trip computer
    Interior light
    Rear seat LATCH safety system; rear seat USB power port
    Disc brakes with Hill Start assist
    Auxilary power - cigarette lighter 12v, additional USB port
    3 yr / 36,000 mile warranty
    Pep Boys is the anticipated official service provider
    Parking brake
    Plus hundreds of options like leather seats, stereo upgrades, radio add-on, etc.
    Colors:
    Rocket Silver, Sour Apple, Creamsicle, Red Hot, True Blue, Licorice, and Marshmallow



    I'd be all over that.

    I'd sell/trade my BMW in a Heartbeat for it.

    I don't ride it anymore anyway. Too many close calls over the years of riding a bike. Been down many times. I'm done with it.

    This Elio, I'd ride/drive, like I have stated previously.

    Bring it to market Guys.

    There are Buyers out tbere, ready for such a ride.

    I could care less what People say. I'd own it.


    Way too under powered....55 HP...0-60 10.8 seconds....a motorcycle engine would be way better IMO
    Other than being a high mpg, less than four wheeled vehicle...
    I believe that's the only correlation to riding a bike there is.

    My thinking is, it's an economical, purpose built, commuter based concept.
    Not something to actually replace a bike or even the standard two door, four+ seater, suv/hardtop.

    If all you need is to get to work or carry very little payload (small amount of groceries, etc.) this is an economical way to do it.

    Now... With that said. SUMBODY will be supping it up with some nature or supercharger, turbo, or ... and getting every once of energy out of it soon enough. [:D]

    At some point in the near future, I can see rallys or short track racing of these things.
  • retroxler58retroxler58 Member Posts: 32,693 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by Rocky Raab
    I'd feel right at home in a "cockpitish" little thing like that, I think.
    Closest I'd ever get to being able to have that feeling that too.
  • Sam06Sam06 Member Posts: 21,244 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    I would go for one but they need a better engine with more performance.

    That thing sounds like a dog on paper.
    RLTW

  • jimdeerejimdeere Member, Moderator Posts: 26,277 ******
    edited November -1
    You'd get squashed like a bug on Interstate 81.
  • retroxler58retroxler58 Member Posts: 32,693 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by jimdeere
    You'd get squashed like a bug on Interstate 81.
    At least if you're riding a bike, your pumpkin would be protected...
  • select-fireselect-fire Member Posts: 69,527 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by retroxler58
    Don't think Dale's interested select...


    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LPnRRvgOzQ
  • 84Bravo184Bravo1 Member Posts: 10,461 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by Sam06
    I would go for one but they need a better engine with more performance.

    That thing sounds like a dog on paper.



    Ever own an old VW Bug??

    I used to be big in to old VW's.

    65' Bug, 69' Karman Ghia, etc. etc.

    They all got hopped up, and would scream.

    Ever hear of the mag "Hot VW?". All kind of helpful tips, data and a great resource for aftermarket parts.

    I'd bet something like that would come out soon enough for this "dog."

    It's a commuter, not a speedster.

    Kinda like what the original Bug, was designed for.
  • fordsixfordsix Member Posts: 8,554 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    ho hum been done davis 1948
  • Rocky RaabRocky Raab Member Posts: 14,497 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    If memory serves, the British Morgan is a front-wheel, motorcycle engined car with three wheels and a wooden frame. Very sporty little critter, too. Still available new, too. But not at prices like $7k, for sure! (US base price $45,000 before options)

    https://www.morgan-motor.co.uk/3-wheeler
    I may be a bit crazy - but I didn't drive myself.
  • dakotashooter2dakotashooter2 Member Posts: 6,186
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by 1911a1-fan
    very bad mojo putting the wife directly behind you in an enclosed space [;)]

    My thought too. I can see x generation couples buying these then realizing 6 months in that it was a bad idea.
  • retroxler58retroxler58 Member Posts: 32,693 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by 1911a1-fan
    very bad mojo putting the wife directly behind you in an enclosed space [;)]
    Hadn't actually though t much 'bout that... But now that I do... [B)]
  • p3skykingp3skyking Member Posts: 23,916 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    There really is nothing new under the sun.
    I saw one of these fifty years ago.

    From the guys that brought you the BF-109.

    https://youtu.be/6VUAm10bqWA
  • gruntledgruntled Member Posts: 8,218 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    I saw quite a few of the Kabinrollers while I was in Germany. The Isettas too. My nephew in England had one of their three wheeled cars but the single wheel was in front. It seemed to ride just like a regular car but I have seen those pictures of how easily they tipped over.
  • mag00mag00 Member Posts: 4,719 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by retroxler58
    https://www.eliomotors.com/

    Anyone been following this new car design?




    For about 5 years now and they still ain't selling them. They were taking investment pre orders back then.
  • Don McManusDon McManus Member Posts: 23,695 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by mag00
    quote:Originally posted by retroxler58
    https://www.eliomotors.com/

    Anyone been following this new car design?




    For about 5 years now and they still ain't selling them. They were taking investment pre orders back then.




    Some say Tucker ran a similar scam. Some say hi was bushwhacked by the big three. Be interesting to see how this one turns out.
    Freedom and a submissive populace cannot co-exist.

    Brad Steele
  • iceracerxiceracerx Member Posts: 8,860 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by Rocky Raab
    If memory serves, the British Morgan is a front-wheel, motorcycle engined car with three wheels and a wooden frame. Very sporty little critter, too. Still available new, too. But not at prices like $7k, for sure! (US base price $45,000 before options)

    https://www.morgan-motor.co.uk/3-wheeler


    Rocky, you need to understand British 'English' to know that the 'wooden frames' in the Morgan are body panel frames like those found in Model T, A, etc Fords. The "Chassis" is indeed made from metal.
  • He DogHe Dog Member Posts: 51,593 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    We saw a lot of similar small, three wheeled cars in Italy, particularly in Florence where the streets remain as they were when Leonardo and Michealangleo walked there. It makes very good sense as a city car in a place with very narrow streets where all traffic moves slowly, most cars are compact, there are no pickups or semis. In the US, well it is cute.
  • Rocky RaabRocky Raab Member Posts: 14,497 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    I do understand that, good friend ice. That's why I said "frames" and not "chassis."
    I may be a bit crazy - but I didn't drive myself.
  • SoreShoulderSoreShoulder Member Posts: 3,148 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    The Elio can do 100 and cruise at 80.

    Most of the foreign microcars had moped engines and topped out around 40-50mph.

    They were for the city. They didn't get the best mileage because they were built for short trips and had simple 2-stroke engines for low initial purchase price instead of fuel economy.

    The Morgan is different, being a sports car instead of an economy city car.
  • iceracerxiceracerx Member Posts: 8,860 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by Rocky Raab
    I do understand that, good friend ice. That's why I said "frames" and not "chassis."


    You probably knew that long before I did. As a youth I thought owning a car with an Ash 'frame' would be neat.

    Maybe this info will help others. (frame v chassis)
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