In response to the "why should Tesla get this when other automakers don't" angle: Nobody is saying the law is at all fair to Ford, GM, Toyota, etc. It's not.

In response to the "why should Tesla get this when other automakers don't" angle: Nobody is saying the law is at all fair to Ford, GM, Toyota, etc. It's not. They should be able to sell directly to consumers also. The law was lobbied for by dealers in Texas, and signed by America's greatest president, George W. Bush, when he was still governor of Texas. Bush was a true conservative who believed in free market principles, except for when he wasn't. Let's not pretend this is Tesla vs. Ford/GM/Toyota. This is Tesla vs. the good old boy, rent-seeker network that is the auto dealer lobby. Car dealerships are some of the last dynasty busineses. Ever wonder why most family run businesses eventually fail when an incompetent son/daughter takes over, but dealerships just stay around for 3 or 4 generations? Its because its a rigged market that requires no skill. The profits don't come from adding value. They come from gouging consumers. Tesla is just a new reminder that we are being screwed, and they don't have the inventory to support the network of the dealership mafiosos and their fratboy progeny. "Dude, my dad owns this dealership, so I totally know business bro......" (overheard at every frat party ever)