Tesla Battles Dealer Associations.

[JJIII]

I agree the manufacturers ought to be able to sell direct, but that brings up a problem. What does the buyer do for service?

[merrylander]

Originally Posted by JJIII

I agree the manufacturers ought to be able to sell direct, but that brings up a problem. What does the buyer do for service?

There are independent mechanics and service garages in fact we take our Impalas to one just up the road from us.

[Boreas]

Originally Posted by JJIII

I agree the manufacturers ought to be able to sell direct, but that brings up a problem. What does the buyer do for service?

Certify independent garages as "factory authorized" and allow them to submit warranty claims on behalf of the customer.

John

[Rajoo]

Bingo. Independent garages would do a better job of customer service since their business is dependent on word of mouth. If you don't like one, there is another down the street. Small business typically do a better job of keeping the costs low.

Dealerships have territories and fixed repair charges to eliminate competition among dealerships. You do get free car vacuum & wash though.

[JJIII]

Originally Posted by merrylander

There are independent mechanics and service garages in fact we take our Impalas to one just up the road from us.

Originally Posted by Boreas

Certify independent garages as "factory authorized" and allow them to submit warranty claims on behalf of the customer.

John

How long is it going to be before there is a workable number of independent shops trained in the new technology? Who will pay for the training?

I'm all for cleaning up the planet, I'm just throwing questions out there. The established manufacturers have network that took a long time to build. I would hate to be in Tesla's position.

[finnbow]

Originally Posted by JJIII

How long is it going to be before there is a workable number of independent shops trained in the new technology? Who will pay for the training?

I'm all for cleaning up the planet, I'm just throwing questions out there. The established manufacturers have network that took a long time to build. I would hate to be in Tesla's position.

Indeed. Not all shops will work on hybrids. In fact, not many do due to concerns about electric shock, arcing, etc.

http://www.hybridcars.com/preferred-hybrid-shops/

http://www.autoinc.org/archives/2005/june2005/mech.htm

[BlueStreak]

Originally Posted by JJIII

How long is it going to be before there is a workable number of independent shops trained in the new technology? Who will pay for the training?

I'm all for cleaning up the planet, I'm just throwing questions out there. The established manufacturers have network that took a long time to build. I would hate to be in Tesla's position.

It would be to Teslas advantage. They are starting with few or no dealerships in many states. It's a different story with established manufacturers. Which might be where some of the flack is coming from.

Nevertheless, it can be done and I believe it should be done. I think it is a great idea.

Dave

[BlueStreak]

Originally Posted by Boreas

Certify independent garages as "factory authorized" and allow them to submit warranty claims on behalf of the customer.

John

Yep, there is that too.

Dave

[BlueStreak]

Originally Posted by JJIII

I agree the manufacturers ought to be able to sell direct, but that brings up a problem. What does the buyer do for service?

Why can't the manufacturer do service? Mechanics at the dealership must go to the manufacturers for training, anyways.

Dave

[JJIII]

Originally Posted by BlueStreak

Why can't the manufacturer do service?

How are we to get the car to the manufacturer?


Mechanics at the dealership must go to the manufacturers for training, anyways.

Dave

There is no "Dealership. Remember... "Direct Sales".