If the HUGE lines & big signup numbers for the Model 3 are any indicator, Tesla is very happy with the early draw of their Model 3 plans. Evan as GM throws together their 1st nationwide attempt at an EV - the GM leader commented; Tesla Calls Out GM And Barra | GM Authority yet that same big auto lobby is the greatest supporter of trying to force Tesla into their dealership mold, which forces Tesla out of those states. So with taking digs - is Mary feeling pressure? .
Interesting...but I would think some of the big support for Model 3 is partially Tesla fans trying to help it achieve financial success.
no doubt. but a lot of people will want a 200 mile bev long before Tesla is available. it's going to be a race to build for both companies.
But even if another beats Tesla to the market, will that 200 mile EV have a 5 star crash rating, be roomy for 5, nationwide charging infrastructure, tow rated, 0-60mph under 6seconds, options for AWD, autopilot, ETC? If so, then yes game on. If not? .
That story is from January. Barra made that quip well before the Model 3 reservations happened. Here's the deal with GM's lobbying on dealership laws -- it's a complement to Tesla. GM is running scared that Tesla is here to stay and will become a substantial competitor in the part of GM's vehicle portfolio that is higher margin and more profitable. GM realizes that there is no realistic way politically to change state laws to enable GM themselves to sell direct. So, since they fear Tesla's staying power, they are lobbying to force Tesla into putting up with the same dealers that GM has to deal with. They want a long-term level playing field.
gm has the advantage of being able to discount cars if necessary, to move them. they can attract quite a few buyers for a number of different reasons.
Nothing's stops Tesla, as a direct seller, from discounting their cars nationally or just regionally. They just haven't felt compelled to do it yet.
Honestly, I don't mind seeing more EV's on the road. Though I did reserve a Model 3, I hope that the Bolt sells well too. At the end of the day, I believe all plug-ins are on the same team, which is to get people off gas. Granted, many plug-in hybrids are barely considered one, but hey, the less gas being used, the better.
