(AP) Sen. Linares: CT Should Let Electric Car Maker Tesla Sell Cars

Article as it appeared in the New Haven Register

Connecticut lawmakers are planning to introduce a bill that would allow electric car maker Tesla Motors to sell its cars directly to consumers in the state.

Rep. Tony Guerrera, co-chairman of the legislature’s Transportation Committee, told The Associated Press his panel will raise a bill for a public hearing on Wednesday.

Current law prevents a vehicle manufacturer from also being a retailer. Several other states have considered whether to allow sales by Tesla.

Sen. Art Linares wants lawmakers to change the law. When he was buying a Tesla he had to travel to New York.

In Connecticut, Tesla is currently only allowed to operate a repair shop in Milford.

James Fleming, president of the Connecticut Automotive Retailers Association, said it’s important to keep the current system of independent dealers.