Don't get me wrong

[True Dough]

I'm not advocating for Tesla. I'd never shell out the money for one of those because they're overpriced and they have all kinds of "fit and finish" issues (and a recent recall over faulty touchscreens).

And, yes, the "Americanized" Wuling vehicle would absolutely need U.S. safety standards. It doesn't even come with airbags in China.

I'm skeptical it would sell in the U.S. for $10,000. It won't be embraced at 17.5 horsepower! You'll be looking at $25,000 or more, I'd bet, for some of the reasons you cited (this is a GM-backed initiative, after all).

Would it still be better value than Tesla? Very likely. But, again, until it's road-proven over a number of years, I'm not taking a chance on it.