Very poorly written article. First off, they're not "orders". It's a refundable holding deposit to put your name on the list. Secondly, there's no way in hell it'll come in under $50k once all the import taxes get added.

But yes, people don't like paying for fuel and the electric car does suit the needs of a good portion of the population. Most owners will have a second or third car as well. I'd be all over one in a heartbeat if I had the cash and the need. The costly part of commuting in our family is the parking, not the fuel. A $5000 motorbike solves both problems. Parking is free and the fuel costs about $15 a month.