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Friday Blog Is Out

Johnny Acree

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Original posting date Aug 2 2017
Details, Details, Details

April 5, 2019



A common saying tells us to “not sweat the small stuff.” While this may be sage advice in our daily lives, the phrase is not applicable when it comes to bringing a new vehicle to market. In terms of manufacturing and engineering, sweating the small stuff is a vital aspect when endeavoring to produce a quality vehicle. As we continue down the path and take our supporters along the journey, we will continue to show the small details that culminate to make up the Elio. Today’s blog from the archives will look at one of these overlooked details: automotive seals.

Automotive seals are used in a number of important locations throughout the vehicle. Sealing is critical for resisting water intrusion, as well as sealing in connectors to displace water from the connection. Sealing the body of the vehicle is important to keep out moisture and to prevent corrosion of internal components. The sealing technology we are utilizing, supplied by Cooper Standard, reduces weight and improves safety, cabin acoustics, occupant comfort, and the aerodynamics of the vehicle.

Here are some of the areas that we will utilize this technology:



  • Sealing is used around the door for displacing water, keeping out dirt, protecting the door when it is slammed, as well as limiting wind noise. Both door handles, interior and exterior, are also sealed.
  • The deck lid for displacing water, protecting the area when slammed, as well as the prevention of dirt and NVH (Noise Vibration and Harshness.)
  • The windows have sealing on both the inside and outside to redirect the water. These are utilized to minimize water intrusion, as well as prevent noise caused by wind.
  • The hood has a seal located at the closing area to manage the slamming of the hood, prevent debris and water from reaching the engine compartment, as well as reduce NVH.
  • Seals are used in the exhaust vent to ensure that the door shuts properly, and manages the exchange of air when using the HVAC.
  • Additional seals are used in the electrical components, electrical connectors, lights, front windshield, mirrors and most any opening on the vehicle.


To ensure that the vehicle is sealed properly, we will be performing a battery of tests both through the engineering stage and at our plant in Caddo Parish. Testing will include:

  • An aerodynamic test to ensure wind noise has been mitigated
  • A car wash/monsoon testing to confirm water is not entering the cabin
  • Door testing, which includes the cycling of the door (open, close, open, close…) window cycling, high-pressure water testing, and door slam noise quality.
  • Deck Lid testing
  • Sun soaking for high temperatures to assure proper performance
  • Thermal shock to assure the seals perform at various different temperatures
  • NVH testing to assure we have eliminated all squeaks and rattles
When you’re driving your current vehicle, its seals are probably far from your mind. If the vehicle is poorly sealed, however, it will be a source of constant frustration. By sweating the small stuff and focusing on the many small details that make up a vehicle, while also keeping an eye on the larger picture, we can produce a quality and lasting vehicle.
 
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RUCRAYZE

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TexasTesla

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Patiently waiting for a Friday blog detailing the newly sourced engine and it’s integration into a Elio prototype chassis...

Paul are you listening...

...
 

Johnny Acree

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Original posting date Dec 13, 2017
Keeping It Simple

April 12, 2019



From the advent of the internet, everyday technology has progressed at breakneck speeds. Every few years, a new device or item presents itself as a game-changer. There is no denying that these developments have brought a litany of benefits, however there is significant evidence that many are ready to pump the brakes on this onslaught of technological progression. While a decade ago, e-readers purportedly changed the way we read, brick and mortar bookstores are thriving, and paperback sales are soaring. As smartphones have become ubiquitous, the classic flip phone is mounting a comeback. The same trend of simplicity can be seen in today’s new vehicles. According to Automotive News, “automakers are increasingly hitting resistance from consumers as they try to streamline and modernize their vehicles’ interiors.”

Many automakers, feeling that they had their finger on the pulse, began to include expensive and new technology as standard equipment in new models. This new technology added substantial cost and frustration to buyers. According to Automotive News, “Drivers’ interaction with technology in a vehicle’s interior is a growing area of dissatisfaction, especially when it comes to basic features such the radio, climate controls and gauge cluster, said Kristin Kolodge, executive director of driver interaction and human-machine interface research at J.D. Power.”

We believe that a happy medium can exist, one where both Luddites and techies are satisfied. The Elio Motors philosophy is simple: we want to provide our customers with everything they need while allowing them to add the newest available tech. The design and function of the standard Elio is based on a desire from Elio customers for a simple, yet modern design with the option for customization.

The base model of the Elio comes equipped with air conditioning, heat, defrost, an AM/FM radio, and a standard instrumental panel. The original design for the Elio dash was based on an Elgin Lord watch, which is a tribute to Paul Elio’s father. While the dash may be available as an option, we decided to move forward with a traditional dashboard featuring standard gauges. This decision was based on reservation holder feedback, as well as a desire to keep costs and development time at a minimum.



While the Automotive News article points out a trend toward simplicity, there remains a strong demand for the most cutting-edge automotive tech. For this reason, we developed our ePlus: My Elio, My Way option program. Through ePlus, Elio Motors customers will be able to add the technology they desire a la carte. This program also means that Elio owners can bring their vehicles to an Elio Motors store and add options after the purchase, allowing them to stay ahead of changing tech trends.

Many auto buyers have signaled a yearning for simplicity while others endeavor to keep with the latest and greatest automotive technology. At Elio Motors, we believe our vehicle presents itself as an ideal choice for both groups. So, if you consider yourself a purist, a techie, or anything in between, the Elio is the vehicle for you.
 
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84mpg

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Something is to be said for simplicity. That’s one of the things that attracted me to the Elio in the first place. It’s a “nice” vehicle in its base form. Not cluttered - and without a bunch of extra junk - unless that’s what a person wants to install. I will deliberately keep mine stock...

My favorite vehicle (that I owned) was a 1973 Datsun Z. A simple (compared to today’s vehicles) and straight forward machine that was a blast to drive. I had the same sort of feel sitting in the Elio.
 
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