You Can't Buy EVs Directly from Auto Manufacturers in Iowa ... But Maybe Soon - CleanTechnica

The article discusses the longstanding legal restriction in Iowa that prevents consumers from buying electric vehicles (EVs) directly from manufacturers, requiring sales to go through third-party auto dealers. This law, rooted in historical concerns about consumer protection and dealer competition, has become problematic with the rise of EVs. Traditional dealers, who profit from maintenance and repairs of gas-powered cars, are often disincentivized to sell EVs, which require less upkeep and about which dealers may have less expertise. Consequently, manufacturers like Tesla and Rivian have pushed for the ability to sell EVs directly to consumers, a practice allowed in most states but still blocked in a few, including Iowa, due to the powerful auto dealer lobby. However, Iowa is on the verge of changing this with the introduction of Senate Study Bill 3067, which would permit direct sales of EVs by manufacturers to consumers. The bill has passed an Iowa Senate subcommittee and is awaiting consideration by the full Senate Commerce Committee. Rivian has publicly