Elio Motors Plans To Launch Efficient Three-Wheeled Car In 2015

Elio Motors isn't the first to produce a small energy-efficient car, but it could be the next to gain a relatively wide presence in the United States, if the upcoming launch and 6,000 pre-orders are any indication. The Elio isn't anything new in terms of the technology it utilizes, but has bragging points in both price and efficiency, not to mention its three-wheel design.

The Elio model, as it seems to be called, is the brainchild of Paul Elio, with his company — Elio Motors — having shown off the model this month at CES. The car is said to get up to 84 miles per gallon in terms of highway mileage, and offers an acceleration rate of 100 miles per hour in 9.6 seconds. For those who will be doing city driving, the EPA is 49 miles per gallon.

The car is a tandem two-seater, with the driver being the only seat up front and the passenger seat being positioned behind it in the back. This allows for the three-wheel designed and slim body that helps achieve the higher mileage rating. Though not practical for families, the car could serve as a cheap option for those who drive alone to work or elsewhere daily.

The price is an attractive $6,800 USD, putting it below the competing Smart Car, and though it isn't decked out with extra trimmings, the car still has a stylish look. Says Elio, "We didn't design it to be cool. It was cool by accident." Over 6,000 pre-orders have been made, and the company is aiming to deliver the vehicles in Q1 of next year.

SOURCE: Yahoo News