[JacobSkyler]

If I had to guess I would say it's intending to fill the niche of the family's second car. Something for Dad to drive to work in while Mum drives the kids around in the main car. The person who's so poor that they can only afford a $2,000 car probably can't afford to make an investment that will take 3 years to pay off.

[lumberjack]

You make an interesting point. I was erroneously thinking about the Elio as an third car along with the usual two daily drivers for both parents.