1/14/2015 - Elio Motors Engine Debut (with Photos!)

[Mark Ambrose]

Engine to Debut at Media Event Feb. 6

 

[Husker1]

I just got the email on this too and I think my heart skipped a beat.

 

[corvairbob]

the way the color is it is from running welding would be more concentrated in the welded area. they look just like motorcycle pipes as they heat during running

 

[dirtbag]

WHOOHOO! Can't wait to see the dyno videos and charts!

 

[Terrence]

Elio Motors Tech Talk v51
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Elio Motors Becomes First Start-up Vehicle Manufacturer in 60 Years to Build Engine From the Ground up; Engine to Debut at Media Event Feb. 6

Go big, or go home.

That seems to be a common mantra among maverick entrepreneurs. Why do something if you are going to think small?

For Elio Motors, one of the biggest swing-for-the-fences decisions was to build our own engine. There is a reason no start-up company has built an internal combustion engine from the ground up in more than 60 years. It ain’t easy!

But, Paul Elio recognized there was no engine currently on the market that could meet our needs. Some engines provided the right power, others the right fuel efficiency. But none provided the right balance of power and efficiency that Elio needs to reach the level of excellence our customers expect.

Fortunately, Elio Motors is working with one of the best engine development companies and one of the best manufacturing companies in the world. IAV has developed engines for major global brands such as Mercedes and BMW and has unmatched expertise. Comau is one of the top manufacturing companies and has helped build vehicles all across the globe. Paul Elio gave these companies a tall challenge. Develop a powerful, efficient engine that can be manufactured efficiently enough to meet our cost targets.
And, IAV and Comau have come through. Big.

We are coming to the end of the engine development road. The engine goes through dynamometer testing on Jan. 28 and 29, and then we are hosting a private “first official start” event for suppliers, investors and media on Feb. 6. Here’s a news release we shared with media this morning (link to release).

It is the culmination of one the most important phases of our development and a reason to recognize and celebrate our progress. It was a major decision. And we are swinging for the fences. We think IAV has knocked it out of the park.

​

Copyright © 2015 Elio Motors, All rights reserved.

How sweet it is !!!! Well worth the wait future Elio owners! Marvelous write up also, just excellent!!
Terrence

 

[corvairbob]

now lets hear all the naysayers this is getting good now the talk will really heat up now. and like you i got real excited as well. things are looking good.

 

[JDub]

Dyno run Jan. 28 & 29. Official first start Feb. 6th so it'll have some time on it by then.

 

[Smitty901]

Fire it up.

 

[james92se]

What I find interesting are parts that are obviously no way going to make it into a sub $7k vehicle. TIG welded stainless steel exhaust manifold? With a V-Band clamp even?

The individual long-tube intake runners appear hand TIG welded too, and also does not appear to be a final result mass produced part.

Why are they not testing the engine with the final production intake and exhaust manifolds?

 

[JEBar]

I can't imagine them not running it before setting up a press conference/showing. Trying it for the first time and it not working in front of everyone would be a disaster. And they know that. It may not be fully tested, but you can bet some actual running testing has been done and they are comfortable enough with it to show it off.

per a quote from EM Tech Bulletin 51

"We are coming to the end of the engine development road. The engine goes through dynamometer testing on Jan. 28 and 29, and then we are hosting a private “first official start” event for suppliers, investors and media on Feb. 6. Here’s a news release we shared with media this morning (link to release)."

as I understand it, dyno testing requires the motor to be fired up and running