Question

Read the passage below, about an electric car. Then, with a partner, list its weaknesses. When you have finished, your teacher will discuss them with you and write them on the board.

Some years ago, a three-wheeled electric car was launched by Hindustan Electric Company. Although it was a revolutionary vehicle, it was a commercial disaster. The
Company did very little research, but believed the product would be successful. The car did not have a very powerful engine, so it was not very fast. As a result it did not appeal to adults. However, even though it was small and slow, the car was not suitable for children either. It did not appear to be safe to use on the road because it was so small. It was also very expensive. The Company had to stop production, after losing millions of rupees.

• Because so many things were wrong with the car, it was impossible for the company to sell it successfully. The company should have been more careful.
• Read the clues below and say what the company should have done/ should
  not have done in order to produce a more successful car.

1. (carry out) (proper market research) (realise) (success) If the company had carried out proper market research, it would have realised the car would not be a success.

2. (powerful) (fast) If the car engine had been __________________

3. (expensive) (suitable) If ________________

4. (size) (safety) If ______________

Answer 1

2. powerful, the car might have been running very fast/the car might have run very fast.
3. the car had been less expensive, it would have become more suitable for a large number of users.
4. the car had had an appropriate size, it could have ensured greater safety.