In a win for common sense and consumers, Elon tweeted some good news: Twitter "Tesla was just approved for a full Class 1 Massachusetts Auto Sales License by a vote of 4 to 1. Much appreciated!"
1. They are the manufacturer, I guess they have no problem with that one. 2. They will sell you a "used" Roadster, they meet requirement #2. They will take your vehicle in trade, albeit through a third party. 3. They have their repair facility in Watertown. They don't really "sell" cars per se in the Natick mall, it's more an education center. I don't expect the MA auto dealers association to give up, they are a tenacious bunch. Doesn't matter though, they've already lost the battle to consumer sentiment.. Most consumers prefer Teslas model to the current "stealership" sales process anyway.
This is good. Wendy if you see this we are thrilled for you and all there, and glad you took a full year lease!
I think that site's wording is incorrect. From the actual books: And skimming Chapter 90 7N1/4 I didn't see anything relevant about location. - - - Updated - - - The long version: http://www.malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXX/Chapter140/Section58 And also relevant was section 59: http://www.malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXX/Chapter140/Section59 Another section was referenced but I don't recall what it was offhand and it's WAY too late for me to research it now. Tesla counsel said it was saying basically the same thing as Section 58's Class 1 requirements.
GreenCarReports article on same. - - - Updated - - - You're correct, Ben. That's why I made sure, in my comments to the Board, to point out that Ira Audi has its sales location in Peabody but its service center in Danvers. While the two locations are only about a mile away, its the exception that proves that there is no legal requirement to have co-located sales and service. I expect most dealers colocate for three reasons: It's easier to maintain; Clerical and other staff can support both sides (e.g. cashier); Service customers cooling their heels while their cars are being repaired can browse the new cars. (Which is kind of odd, if you think about it: "You're here with your BMW to be serviced yet again; wouldn't you like to inflict yourself to more of the same?")
AMEN! I guess at some "level" it's just business. It's certainly not the number 1 reason i have 2 reservations and will definitely buy the truck if it ever comes to fruition but these people DISGUST me. Some of the worst days of my life have been spent at car dealerships. I believe in my heart that Tesla is and WILL be different. I pray that I'm right. Really, I do.
Tesla's internal legal counsel at the hearing last night was Dan Connelly (I think I got that right)--flew up from Texas, I was told, because he has the greatest experience on franchise issues. You don't hear many Texas twangs at a New England town meeting!
Natick legislator files bill to modify auto dealer franchise laws - Framingham, MA - The MetroWest Daily News Legislator legislates to back up Tesla's license. NADA is not happy.
The text of the bill is found here: Bill H.241 I urge any MA residents to write to their state rep and state senator voicing, asking for their support on this bill. We know the car-dealer lobbyists will be swinging hard against it.
I bet they wish they had never filed the first lawsuit, it just woke everybody up to the fact that the dealer laws are for the dealers only.