Ohio Lets Tesla Sell Cars Direct—Rivian Wants the Same
When Tesla bypassed traditional franchised dealerships over a decade ago and started selling its electric vehicles directly to customers it started a legal battle.
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Rivian has filed a federal lawsuit against Ohio's Bureau of Motor Vehicles, challenging the state's car sales regulations. The company wants permission to sell electric vehicles directly to consumers, like Tesla does. Currently, Rivian can sell in 25 states but is blocked in Ohio.
The lawsuit argues that Ohio's direct sales prohibition harms consumers by reducing competition and increasing costs. Ohio customers must purchase Rivian vehicles in other states.
This legal battle stems from a 2014 law that allowed Tesla to keep its direct sales license while preventing other manufacturers from doing the same.