A bill to allow Tesla Motors to sell its electric cars directly to Arizona consumers is dormant at the Legislature.
But the measure could be revived as the automaker looks at Arizona and three other Southwestern states for a $5 billion battery factory that could employ 6,500 workers. How the four states treat Tesla’s retail sales could become an issue in where the 10-million-square-foot plant is located.
Right now, Arizona customers can’t buy a Tesla car in the state. They can test drive one of the high-priced, high-powered cars at a showroom at Scottsdale Fashion Square, but they have to order it online and have it delivered from California because of existing Arizona laws prohibiting manufacturer-owned dealerships.
Related: 10 Reasons Tesla Should Come to Arizona
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