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Can Think survive setbacks, disappointment?

January 27, 2012|By John Paul | WSBT-TV Reporter

ELKHART – State and local leaders said they had a proven product that would bring jobs and make Indiana the electric car capital of the world.  One small car brought big hope to Elkhart a few years ago, but that road to success has been difficult.

"Disappointment is a good word," said Elkhart Mayor Dick Moore.

The promise by 2013: 415 full-time jobs.

With about a year to go towards that goal, things at the Think plant on Magnum Road are slow-going.

WSBT News cameras captured just one pickup truck in the parking lot.

Since Governor Mitch Daniels announcement at the plant in January, 2010, we saw a few cars roll off the assembly line, but we also saw something else – recalls, bankruptcy and uncertainty about the automaker's future.

"We have not been informed about what's going on," said Moore.

Elkhart did offer Think North America a tax abatement. The more money the company invested in its equipment and plant, the bigger the incentive.

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To date: Elkhart's is out $1,500.

"The city standpoint we haven't lost a lot and, we still stand to gain," said Barkley Garrett with Elkhart Economic Development.

Is there a market for an electric car with a $40,000 dollar price tag? Mayor Moore can only hope.

"It's a hard sell in this country, but I think it can be done," said Moore. "We're looking forward to those jobs and building cars in Elkhart, Indiana."

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