My Review And Thoughts After Seeing The P4

[Jeff Porter]

As I stated before, I went into this knowing that I was only seeing a prototype, not a perfected off the line product. I'm in this game 100% until the end no matter what the score is but, like everyone else can't wait to see a completed vehicle. Let's just pretend I saw a finished product. Things I would want changed are: the hood latches (I'd rather see a spring loaded release/ locking mechanism); larger trunk opening towards the top; get rid of the prop rod for the trunk; lose the enclosed front fenders; clean up the front suspension components (ie powder coat all the same color); and maybe have just a little more ground clearance. But now I'm getting into my "wish list" instead of my review of the P4. Sorry I can't really answer your question Jeff but I hope this helps.

Nah it's all good, appreciate your thoughts. I know I've read that the final model will have a little more ground clearance, supposed to be similar to a Mustang (not sure what year). Losing the front fenders and going to the P3 version's more open fenders is going to be an option I think. I like your other ideas, especially the powder coating of the suspension components. Not sure how much that powder coating would raise the final cost. Anyway, good stuff!

 

[UCF'73]

Excellent report, Husker. I

So take it for what it's worth, but here are a few thoughts of mine after seeing the P4 in Colorado over Labor Day weekend.
Let me start first by stating that I am sharing my views after seeing a prototype vehicle. I'm in the transportation industry, so I understand prototypes are exactly what they are...an example of a product that has yet to be perfected and is not yet in production.
With that being said, I was able to overlook the imperfections and somewhat "cheap" looking fixtures that are on the car, and visualize the end result that we are all patiently waiting for.
Exterior :
Overall I was very impressed with the outside. One thing that surprised me was how short it really is. I think the specs say it's 54" tall but I didn't put a tape measure to it. I'm still not a big fan of the enclosed front fenders but they looked a lot better in person than in pictures. My concerns on them are: ease of removal; snow/ice buildup inside; road debri getting caught inside and would a blow out cause severe havoc. I didn't take a real close look at their mounts but a gentleman in line said it looked like there were 2 bolts on the inside to remove for tire access. The back tire which is a 185/60/15, looked really good tucked away. I asked about access for tire removal, and one of the team members stated that there was most likely going to be a lever inside the "trunk" that would release a latch when pulled and the wheel cover would then open like a "clamshell". I kind of have the same concerns for the back as I do the front, but it appeared there was more room inside the wheel well on the back. I don't have any experience with them, but I think run flat tires might be a good option for the Elio as there is no spare. The trunk door had a latch on the outside in order to open it. I didn't see a lock so I assume that is still on the drawing board. It had a prop rod which could get in the way when putting stuff in or out. I'd like to see the opening a few inches taller and I think a remote would be the best for opening and security. The hood opens to the front and is out of the way enough for you to do simple maintenance. I won't comment on the engine or the compartment it's in as that's all likely to change with the new engine. I thought the side view mirrors were a good size and looked good. Overall I think the body lines and window openings looked really good and everything flowed nicely together.
Interior:
Getting into both seat positions was actually a lot like getting into your average sub compact car. In the front seat I felt like I had plenty of room. Just like driving a normal car but having the same amount of room on the right side as you do the left. Just so you can compare I'm 5'10" and 190 lbs with a 32"-34" inseam and 36" waist. I had plenty of legroom, headspace and on my sides. I didn't belt in but the shoulder harnes seemed easily accessible. Reaching to the steering wheel and foot controls felt normal, but depending on where things are on the dash, I see that steering wheel controls would be very nice. I didn't notice that there was tilt or telescoping but the column probably isn't what is going to be the end product anyway. The side mirrors seemed to be placed in a good spot, but with all vehicles there are blind spots that a person has to get used to. The windshield opening gave a nice view and I could see the front fenders out the sides just fine. One thing I may consider is a see thru tinted visor for the windshield instead of the solid one currently installed. If your going from a big buick or caddy this will be a big change for you, but if your in a sub compact like me you will adjust easily. The current front seat was comfortable for the few minutes I was in it, but it's had several thousand butts in it so it's hard to tell exactly. The back seat was a little tighter. The sales team said there is going to be 2" more headroom in the production model and more padding on the seat. My knees were touching the back of the front seat, but I'm not sure what position it was in. The view out the side was fine but all you really saw straight ahead was the backrest. I could envision a tv screen in that with either a view from a camera out the front or even a view of the driver. Or just watch a movie. I could sit in the back on a road trip but would probably enjoy getting out every 100-150 miles to stretch. My wife said she felt fine and would have no problem sitting there for an extended drive.
As far as the car goes that's about all I have.
The sales team was very upbeat and informational. Jerome Vassallo who is the VP of sales was with them the day I was there and was very excited about the future of Elio and also had plenty of knowledge to pass onto all that asked. If I had to rate this prototype I would give it an 8+ on a 1-10 scale.
I hope this helps you out and I hope I didn't ramble too much. I wanted to give as detailed review as I could for those of you that don't have a chance to see it on the road tour. Pics to follow.

'Excellent report Husker. ll know some things to look for next month. They might want to minimize the width of the front seat headrest as much as practical (without losing its functionality) so the back seat passenger can see a little better and stick his or her head around it from time to time.

 

[JEBar]

The sales team was very upbeat and informational. Jerome Vassallo who is the VP of sales was with them the day I was there and was very excited about the future of Elio and also had plenty of knowledge to pass onto all that asked.

did the sales folks give you the impression that they were there only to pass on info and stir up interest or did they seem willing to take feedback to the company's leadership as well

Jim

 

[Mike W]

So take it for what it's worth, but here are a few thoughts of mine after seeing the P4 in Colorado over Labor Day weekend.
Let me start first by stating that I am sharing my views after seeing a prototype vehicle. I'm in the transportation industry, so I understand prototypes are exactly what they are...an example of a product that has yet to be perfected and is not yet in production.
With that being said, I was able to overlook the imperfections and somewhat "cheap" looking fixtures that are on the car, and visualize the end result that we are all patiently waiting for.
Exterior :
Overall I was very impressed with the outside. One thing that surprised me was how short it really is. I think the specs say it's 54" tall but I didn't put a tape measure to it. I'm still not a big fan of the enclosed front fenders but they looked a lot better in person than in pictures. My concerns on them are: ease of removal; snow/ice buildup inside; road debri getting caught inside and would a blow out cause severe havoc. I didn't take a real close look at their mounts but a gentleman in line said it looked like there were 2 bolts on the inside to remove for tire access. The back tire which is a 185/60/15, looked really good tucked away. I asked about access for tire removal, and one of the team members stated that there was most likely going to be a lever inside the "trunk" that would release a latch when pulled and the wheel cover would then open like a "clamshell". I kind of have the same concerns for the back as I do the front, but it appeared there was more room inside the wheel well on the back. I don't have any experience with them, but I think run flat tires might be a good option for the Elio as there is no spare. The trunk door had a latch on the outside in order to open it. I didn't see a lock so I assume that is still on the drawing board. It had a prop rod which could get in the way when putting stuff in or out. I'd like to see the opening a few inches taller and I think a remote would be the best for opening and security. The hood opens to the front and is out of the way enough for you to do simple maintenance. I won't comment on the engine or the compartment it's in as that's all likely to change with the new engine. I thought the side view mirrors were a good size and looked good. Overall I think the body lines and window openings looked really good and everything flowed nicely together.
Interior:
Getting into both seat positions was actually a lot like getting into your average sub compact car. In the front seat I felt like I had plenty of room. Just like driving a normal car but having the same amount of room on the right side as you do the left. Just so you can compare I'm 5'10" and 190 lbs with a 32"-34" inseam and 36" waist. I had plenty of legroom, headspace and on my sides. I didn't belt in but the shoulder harnes seemed easily accessible. Reaching to the steering wheel and foot controls felt normal, but depending on where things are on the dash, I see that steering wheel controls would be very nice. I didn't notice that there was tilt or telescoping but the column probably isn't what is going to be the end product anyway. The side mirrors seemed to be placed in a good spot, but with all vehicles there are blind spots that a person has to get used to. The windshield opening gave a nice view and I could see the front fenders out the sides just fine. One thing I may consider is a see thru tinted visor for the windshield instead of the solid one currently installed. If your going from a big buick or caddy this will be a big change for you, but if your in a sub compact like me you will adjust easily. The current front seat was comfortable for the few minutes I was in it, but it's had several thousand butts in it so it's hard to tell exactly. The back seat was a little tighter. The sales team said there is going to be 2" more headroom in the production model and more padding on the seat. My knees were touching the back of the front seat, but I'm not sure what position it was in. The view out the side was fine but all you really saw straight ahead was the backrest. I could envision a tv screen in that with either a view from a camera out the front or even a view of the driver. Or just watch a movie. I could sit in the back on a road trip but would probably enjoy getting out every 100-150 miles to stretch. My wife said she felt fine and would have no problem sitting there for an extended drive.
As far as the car goes that's about all I have.
The sales team was very upbeat and informational. Jerome Vassallo who is the VP of sales was with them the day I was there and was very excited about the future of Elio and also had plenty of knowledge to pass onto all that asked. If I had to rate this prototype I would give it an 8+ on a 1-10 scale.
I hope this helps you out and I hope I didn't ramble too much. I wanted to give as detailed review as I could for those of you that don't have a chance to see it on the road tour. Pics to follow.

I was there on Labor Day weekend too, first in line with my wife. She wanted to see it and get in it to make sure she was comfortable with going all in, just not all the way, but she was happy with what we could do. She fit well both in the front and back but is hoping the option for rear windows that pop open. I fit well too, I'm about 6'1", my legs are a bit longer and my waist a touch wider but pretty close to the same size and the seat didnt' touch my knees when it was moved forward for my wife to drive. You should do fine. I was glad to hear they are raising the roof a couple of inches, my head didn't touch but just only. It will be interesting to see how they answer some of those questions on tires, radio and dash and all the other little things the P4 wasn't designed to answer. Thanks for your review, it was helpful and the photos covered all the important angles.

 

[Husker1]

did the sales folks give you the impression that they were there only to pass on info and stir up interest or did they seem willing to take feedback to the company's leadership as well

Jim

I'd have to say most of the sales team I saw was only there to answer questions and stir interest. But on the other hand I'd have to say their position (probably just an intern) limited what they could say and do. But Jerome Vassallo who is sales VP was able to give a little more knowledge and I believe he also took in from people's suggestions. I had only seen Jerome on an interview before, so I didn't even recognize at first, but a very friendly guy! I had my t shirt on so he came up shook my hand and thanked for the support. I wish I had recorded all I heard him say as he was giving out a lot of great info.

 

[JEBar]

thank you for your report .... we hope to see them when they are in Raleigh in December

Jim

 

[Charles Stanley]

Thanks! your post and pictures were a cut above. i appreciate that your experience gives you a little more awareness than the average person is likely to have. That especially true when you only have a few minutes to sit in the Elio. I know when i get that chance soon, I know that my emotions are very likely to color my perceptions when I'm in the Elio. Your observations, to me, are very fair, and objective. And you pictures showed something I have not been able to find anywhere yet. The pictures I have been able to find do not show the visor. I can see it clearly on one of your pictures. And I appreciate your comment about the possible use a tinted visor would offer. i had been thinking about that before you mentioned it. Again thanks for a very informative post. I particularly liked your comments about the appearance of the body finish.

 

[Husker1]

Thanks! your post and pictures were a cut above. i appreciate that your experience gives you a little more awareness than the average person is likely to have. That especially true when you only have a few minutes to sit in the Elio. I know when i get that chance soon, I know that my emotions are very likely to color my perceptions when I'm in the Elio. Your observations, to me, are very fair, and objective. And you pictures showed something I have not been able to find anywhere yet. The pictures I have been able to find do not show the visor. I can see it clearly on one of your pictures. And I appreciate your comment about the possible use a tinted visor would offer. i had been thinking about that before you mentioned it. Again thanks for a very informative post. I particularly liked your comments about the appearance of the body finish.

I'm glad I could help you out Charles! We here do our best to work as a group, that way we get the most out of this experience. I'll be looking forward to your review.

 

[JEBar]

The windshield opening gave a nice view and I could see the front fenders out the sides just fine.

I've been thinking about the above observation .... is it safe to believe that you cannot see the front fenders out of the windshield ? .... if not, does it take much shifting in your position in the vehicle to see the front fenders out of the side windows ?.... how would you assess the potential for problems (if any) caused by the blind spots created by the windshield's frame

Jim

 

[tommy]

Excellent report, Husker. I

'Excellent report Husker. ll know some things to look for next month. They might want to minimize the width of the front seat headrest as much as practical (without losing its functionality) so the back seat passenger can see a little better and stick his or her head around it from time to time.

I agree wholeheartedly UCF'73. That is one large headrest. Might want to look at the rear one also if for no other reason than aesthetics.