Washington moves forward with direct EV sales: Rivian and Lucid may follow Tesla

Bill in Olympia would allow direct sales by Rivian and Lucid, putting them on par with Tesla, with safeguards and support for low-income consumers.

Summary of the proposal

A bill in Olympia aims to allow Rivian and Lucid to sell vehicles directly to consumers in the state, putting them on the same footing as Tesla. The measure is fast-tracked and, if approved and signed into law, could change the pace of EV sales in Washington.

How it works

SB 6354, introduced on February 19, passed out of the Senate Transportation Committee and results from negotiations between the manufacturers and the Washington State Auto Dealers Association. The proposal also raises a fee for dealerships, with part of the revenue earmarked for used car rebates for low-income families.

Eligibility criteria

• U.S. companies that produce only battery electric vehicles;
• At least 300 cars registered in Washington by January 1st;
• Must have a service shop in the state;
• Cannot have participated in a franchise agreement with an auto dealership.

With these requirements, low-cost Chinese vehicles would likely be excluded, at least for now.

Who can sell directly

The proposal would only allow Rivian and Lucid to meet the rules, as established automakers cannot use subsidiaries to bypass the dealership model.

Positions and assessments

Executives from Rivian and Lucid describe the agreement as a compromise between manufacturers and dealers, preserving the role of dealer networks while expanding access to EVs in the state. The Washington State Dealers Association stated that the text protects consumers and prevents franchised manufacturers from unfairly competing with their own dealerships.

Legislative Context

Historically, Washington law prevents direct purchases from EV manufacturers, with Tesla being the exception since 2014. A previous bill in the House to pave the way for more manufacturers did not advance, partly due to a lack of support among the caucuses. If the Senate approves, the text should move to the House, following the normal process of committees and votes.

Impacts and next steps

Furthermore, Rivian has already signaled financial commitment to sustain the agenda, including contributions for a potential ballot measure initiative that could lead to a vote in November 2026 if the Legislature does not advance. The coalition of supporters states it is ready to proceed, depending on the progress in the Legislature.

Opposition and caveats

Traditional automakers and the automotive sector criticize the idea of an exception for Rivian and Lucid, arguing that all manufacturers should abide by the same rules. Critics warn of the risk of setting precedents that would facilitate future exemptions for other companies, including those of foreign origin with state support.

Caucus Notes

Representative Amy Walen, former chair of the Consumer Protection and Business Committee, stated that the proposal needs additional consumer protections and greater physical presence of EVs in the state. According to her, it is necessary to avoid choosing winners and losers without clearer rules.

Conclusion: the proposal is under debate and may redefine who can sell EVs directly to the consumer in Washington, with implications for the balance between consumers, dealers, and manufacturers. What do you think about direct EV sales? Leave your comment below and share your opinion on the pros and cons of this change.