A modern washing machine can be had for $300 in large part thanks to more automated manufacturing, better materials and electronics. I don't think there's any f

A modern washing machine can be had for $300 in large part thanks to more automated manufacturing, better materials and electronics. I don't think there's any fundamental reason why someone couldn't build a reliable, efficient, repairable modern washing machine for close to the price of current machines - the extra cost would be miniscule compared to the cost of building a functional washing machine in the first place. They just don't because it means more sales.