WASHINGTON – Washington Governor Jay Inslee Thursday signed a bill that will allow Tesla to continue selling its cars through its own, factory-owned showrooms instead of franchised dealerships in the state.
The bill allows Tesla continue operating in the state at its two showrooms in Seattle and Bellevue.
Tesla released a statement Monday, saying the legislation should serve as a “model solution” for other states who have thus far tried to thwart the green automaker’s direct sales model.
Tesla spokesman Patrick Jones thanked Inslee and the Washington State Legislature in an e-mail for “supporting a culture of innovation and ultimately making the right decision for consumers.”
Bryan Imai, senior general counsel for the Washington State Auto Dealer Association, said the bill was fair to both manufacturers and dealers, adding that the bill strengthens existing laws that prevent startups from selling directly to customers.
The bill was sponsored by Republican state Sen. Mike Hewitt.
Source: Auto News
