Pick up a new Tesla... from a department store

Tesla is taking the unusual step of selling its vehicles at the Nordstrom department store in Los Angeles. Already renowned for its left-of-field sales distribution model, the maker generally offers its cars via directly owned stores, commonly to be found located in shopping malls.

The department store angle is a new one, however, and Tesla has partnered with Nordstrom for a short-term pilot project. Set to operate till the end of 2016, both parties will assess the project’s success from their own viewpoint at that time.

The catch is that Nordstrom employees are not able to legally sell the vehicles to customers until Tesla obtains a sales licence for the location. The site, which is referred to as a ‘gallery’, will allow direct sales once the licence is obtained because it is located in California. Many other states have introduced bans and are adding restrictions to franchise laws as they oppose Tesla’s direct sales model.

In the meantime, gallery employees dealing with interested customers need to set up a call with an off-site sales associate, or direct the customer to a licensed Tesla Store or to Tesla’s website.

According to website Green Car Reports, Tesla’s plans open them up to a wave of lawsuits, as traditional franchised car dealers view this model as a threat to their business. Those states that have altered the law around sales and franchising have apparently done so as a result of pressure from auto-dealer trade groups and lobbyists. Interesting times ahead.