When will the reservation system be declared dead???

[SPDYII]

If I was a new buyer, why would I make a reservation? Why would a person put down a $99 deposit on a car that may come in 2009, 2010, or 2011 and you won't know for sure till the dealer calls you? It may, by the time you get it, cost more and have different options on it. You also may have to configure it more than once if it stretches between model years. Why would you do that, when all you have to do is go down to your local (maybe) dealer and wait in most case a fews and pick up a car and go home with it. DONE!! I say the reservation system is dead for new buyers (if you are buying today) and smart USA killed it.

[spdickey]

Because someone else will, and you won't get a car. Either get in line or get out, your choice.

[smartSparky]

Why? Well, here's a few reasons.

Instead of the usual bright shiny balloon and free hot dog big tent sale buy it NOW marketing of most cars in America, you have the chance to order EXACTLY what you want and know, up front, EXACTLY what you will pay for it. Yes, the price may change slightly if you order in one model year and take delivery in the next model year, but still you'll get EXACTLY what you ordered and only be expected to pay the price you accepted.

Sure, if you want to fall victim to the old buying model you can run down to your local smartcenter and over-pay for options you don't really want or need. If that system works for you, then go for it.

For those of us that "get" the concept, we're perfectly happy to fidget out the wait and get the THE cars we want.

I'm sorry you don't get the concept. Go buy a Yaris, a Fit or a Ford.

[karltrev]

Reservation system should have been discontinued end of December untill production can be increased. Current handling of the orphans is only causing discontent. Non-expert opinion.

[factor9]

SPDYII - If you don't like the smart reservation system, I suggest you take a look at the new APTERA! They expect to start sending them out in 12 mos. or so, you need to put down $500 (refundable, of course), and that puts you on a pre-order position that should give some order to "first come, first serve." Hmmm...where have I heard that before?

[spdickey]

Originally Posted by karltrev

Reservation system should have been discontinued end of December untill production can be increased. Current handling of the orphans is only causing discontent. Non-expert opinion.

Better to wait in line than storm the dealers in a mob.

[PassionforPassionCT]

Originally Posted by spdickey

Because someone else will, and you won't get a car. Either get in line or get out, your choice.

Thats the problem. There isnt a line, and if there is... people are tired of all the cutting.

[spdickey]

Originally Posted by PassionforPassionCT

Thats the problem. There isnt a line, and if there is... people are tired of all the cutting.

Much better than all the "cutting in for dollars" that was done with the early Prius, Fiero, PT Cruiser sales, etc.

[mini me]

Arizona only sells orphans to those who have reserved and are on the orphan list. They do call those on the orphan list, but if you walk in and meet the before mentioned requirements (reserved and on orphan list) they will sell you an orphan if available. Seems fair enough to me. If I wanted an orphan, I would buy one. Content to wait in line for mine since I want it the way I order it.

[Karl Roth]

I like the system and think they should keep it.
karl