I think that's conjecture Smitty. If I wanted to grow my business, let alone not end up the laughing stock of the automotive industry I really don't see the incentive for companies like Dakkota, Peterson Spring, Irvin, Lear, etc, etc, etc to have anything to do with Elio Motors..... unless they reasonably believe Elio Motors has a shot, and will fight as hard as they can to succeed. I'd have to question any business that lightly gave away brand quality as you suggest.
The business world doesn't think like that. If you have money and are willing to do business, then game on.