Car Dealers Are Terrified of Tesla’s Plan to Eliminate Oil Changes

[BlueStreak]

72. It may be a proxy for the REAL fight that lies ahead

Tesla's argument is that because electric cars don't have as many parts requiring as frequent maintenance, Tesla shouldn't have to face the same dealership requirements that have evolved over the decades as a result of many abuses by the manufacturers (dangerous vehicles and lemons.)

This is the second most expensive purchase most people face. There are restrictions on who can sell houses too, for the same good reasons.

I completely agree with you that Tesla won't be a factor for middle class Americans for at least 5 years, and maybe never. Forget Tesla. The real issue is that anybody can make an electric car. It isn't that complicated: 4 wheels , a motor, and some batteries. Tesla makes a very good one and charges a small fortune. The dealers may be looking at companies like Tata (India) or even more likely, BYD (China), which are very likely to make electric cars that do work for middle class Americans.

The dealers want to make sure they can fend off those players. Tesla may prove to be just a skirmish and not the main battle -- an historical footnote.