My observation is that instead of a giant holding lot somewhere, the dealer's lots (those with space) are the holding lot. Production of such a complex device is a very ticklish task compounded by a long transit pipeline and lots of variables in predicting and timing demand- especially for something just being introduced to the marketplace. In this case a highly competitive situation at the time of year when sales are slow. Also there are significant differences between product targeted to world markets and things are produced in batches. So this giant train can't start or stop on a dime (so to speak) and timing of the introduction (ad buys, promotions, dealer training, tweaking features- essentially ramping up is an inexact and expensive task that involves investment and risk. Obviously the forecasted demand and market acceptance hasn't materialized as predicted but you can't introduce a new brand against established and entrenched brands half way. It is a very delicate and deliberate dance involving PR, media reviews, and ad/marketing planning. That said, it does seem the most efficient way to do it was leveraging existing Fiat and Maserati dealers.
The upside is amazing selection and great pricing (as inventory turns can be effective more than straight margin to maintain cashflow). And the only way to grow fast is butts in seats to build a reputation as well as word-of-mouth buzz to normalize the brand. This is no small undertaking - from a blank sheet of paper!
Judging from comments here the worst issues are squealing brakes (that died down), discharged batteries, and feature adjustments in product planning.
Not too shabby. We, as consumers had a total blast in the experience of finding the brand, model, and exact vehicle. The consumer is the winner here, especially early adopters. Pure economics.
You can't underestimate the size of this undertaking (in a world of fashion where the consumer takes it all for granted and is swimming in choices.
From a manufacturing and production aspect, this is all fascinating to me as it plays out.
And of course we got a great value on a car we love with unique differentiation and that is proving every day to be reliable, elegantly engineered, and a total blast.
