More than 65,000 people signed up to buy one of the Elio 3-wheeled cars as soon as they come off the assembly line in Shreveport. But wait. There's no production and no movement on producing the gas powered cars.

LA Auto Show Previews New Models From Top Manufacturers
Getty ImagesImages
loading...

What Is Elio Motors Working on Now?

In fact, Elio Motors has shifted gears. The company is now focused on the new Elio-E electric car. We don't know where those cars will be built. We can hope Shreveport is in the mix for that. The Elio-E model has a targeted base price of $14,900. This would be the cheapest electric car on the market.

Some of the prototypes of the Elio G (the gas powered car) have been retrofitted into electric versions for testing. Elio still has the old GM Plant in Shreveport under lease, and some of the needed manufacturing equipment is still in place. But the company would need to upgrade the complex for today's technology.

LA Auto Show Previews New Models From Top Manufacturers
Getty Images
loading...

In a news release, CEO Paul Elio says “We never quit working to make this dream happen. The market has changed, and investors and consumers are looking for innovative, environmentally conscious, low cost electric vehicles, and we have a great option that will appeal to a very large under-served market."

The Elio will have many of the features drivers want including power windows, power door locks, air conditioning and cruise control. The Elio will also have several air-bags.

LA Auto Show Previews New Models From Top Manufacturers
Getty Images
loading...

 

Is the Gas Powered Elio Car Dead?

Elio posted this message on the company website about the gas powered car:

Our goal is to revolutionize American transportation. We're creating the ultimate commuter vehicle for virtually every budget. One that gets up to 84 MPG, has a targeted base price of just $7,450, and will create in excess of 1,500 American jobs. But there is no mention on beginning production of the gas version. The entire focus of the company right now seems to be the electric model.

But the company still needs to raise hundreds of millions of dollars to get production up and going and so far, no source of funding has been identified by the company brass.

Caddo Parish leaders tell KEEL News the lease agreement between the parish and the Industrial Realty Group (IRG) are all current and up to date.

Who Makes the Most Money in Shreveport Fire Department

After the 13% pay increases earlier this year, more than 20 Shreveport Firefighters now make more than $75,000.

Eight Amazing Airbnbs in Louisiana

While you're looking for places to get away to, even just for the weekend, make sure you check out these eight great Airbnbs available right here in Louisiana.

The 10 Best Places to Day Drink in Shreveport-Bossier City

 

 

More From K945, The Hit Music Channel