[rice_classic]

3 pages and nobody points out the actual economic function of the car?

This car, by economic definition, is a "LOSS LEADER". It's intended solely as a tool of brand imaging, a lure to the brand and the showrooms. It improves brand loyalty and repeat purchasers. Ironically the Corvette was intended to be the same exact thing for GM but people ended up buying so many that eventually the Corvette (an intended loss-leader) became a profitable loss-leader if you will: benefits of a loss leader whilst generating a profit in itself.

Usually on products of this intention, breaking even on the manufacturing cost is a huge win because of the residual economic benefit the company will realize from its existence.