I know for some this may sound like capitulation to the strong-arm tactics of NADA and its state associations, but rather than fight these tedious and cumbersome legal battles state-by-state, I've thought of a few scenarios that might be perceived as less antagonistic by the dealers, and radically expand the potential distribution channels for Tesla.
1) Pre-Qualified Franchisees:
Although maybe it couldn't explicitly come out and say as much, Tesla could use its leverage and relationship with Mercedes and Toyota, and "short-list" top-tier Lexus and Mercedes-Benz franchise owners that have top-rated customer service as candidates to have stores. The buying experience at luxury-brand dealerships is usually much different and better than "mass-market" brands. I would think dealers with experience selling luxury brands could handle the sales, marketing and service (both customer and vehicle) responsibly and effectively.
2) Strict Location/Sales Requirements:
One of the items that Musk has said makes him uneasy about the franchise model is selling EVs side-by-side with ICE vehicles. Make one of the franchise requirements be a stand-alone location, not co-located with another brand or franchise. I don't know if Tesla could legally require it as part of the franchise terms, but maybe even make the salespeople non-commissioned.
What are everyone's thoughts?
1) Pre-Qualified Franchisees:
Although maybe it couldn't explicitly come out and say as much, Tesla could use its leverage and relationship with Mercedes and Toyota, and "short-list" top-tier Lexus and Mercedes-Benz franchise owners that have top-rated customer service as candidates to have stores. The buying experience at luxury-brand dealerships is usually much different and better than "mass-market" brands. I would think dealers with experience selling luxury brands could handle the sales, marketing and service (both customer and vehicle) responsibly and effectively.
2) Strict Location/Sales Requirements:
One of the items that Musk has said makes him uneasy about the franchise model is selling EVs side-by-side with ICE vehicles. Make one of the franchise requirements be a stand-alone location, not co-located with another brand or franchise. I don't know if Tesla could legally require it as part of the franchise terms, but maybe even make the salespeople non-commissioned.
What are everyone's thoughts?