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This also blocks GM/Ford/Chrysler from selling directly to the consumer. This isn't specifically Tesla focused, but is favoring the auto dealer network which wants to remain relevant and get their cut.

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GM/Ford/Chrysler have a symbiotic relationship with their dealers - they both need each other to survive. Neither wants to see a new upstart that might someday eat their lunch.

Presumably if the makers had a do-over, they might try direct to the consumer themselves, but the present conditions make that impossible.

Uh no they don't. The dealers need the manufacturers to survive, the manufacturers could easily open their own dealerships and sell their cars cheaper while running the old dealers out of business.

The dealerships do not benefit the manufacturer.

Since only Tesla actually wants to sell direct (and in fact needs to due to the unique nature of their product), this does in effect only target Tesla. It just doesn't look so targeted to the layperson, which is likely why they can get away with this.

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