For real this time? Elio Motors’ 84-mpg P5 prototype to debut at LA Auto Show

By Andrew Hard Published November 6, 2015

For the last few years, American startup Elio Motors has claimed that its three-wheeled, 84-mpg, $6,800 commuter car would be hitting the road soon. A car this fuel-efficient and stylistically unique for such little money is enticing to say the least, but a number of delays left potential customers and other interested parties wondering whether the vehicle would ever materialize. According the company, the wait is nearly over.

Elio Motors has announced that its P5 prototype vehicle — which will closely preview the eventual production version — will be launched at the 2015 LA Auto Show on November 19. A news conference is scheduled for 10 a.m. PST on that day, where more details of the car are expected to be revealed.

As of now, we expect the P5 to equip a 0.9-liter, three-cylinder engine developed specifically for Elio Motors that will produce 55 horsepower. Due to its low curb weight of approximately 1,250 pounds, the P5 will have a top speed of over 100 mph and be able to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 9.6 seconds. Additionally, the two-seater boasts an 8.0-gallon fuel tank, and styling is expected to closely resemble the official CAD renderings shown above.

“The P5 build is another important step in our march toward production and is the culmination of several important strategic initiatives we have completed or launched in the past several months,” said Elio. “The completion of our engine prototype, our offering to accredited investors, and our recent supplier summit are all excellent examples of the progress we continue to make every day.”

As of this writing, 46,866 reservations for the vehicle have been placed, and current estimates put the delivery date for the production version at the fourth quarter of 2016.

Former Staff Writer

Andrew first started writing in middle school and hasn't put the pen down since. Whether it's technology, music, sports, or…

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