Lawmakers in Washington State are moving forward with legislation that could allow electric vehicle manufacturers Rivian and Lucid Motors to sell vehicles directly to customers, following a similar exemption previously granted to Tesla.
The proposal, known as Senate Bill 6354, would modify existing state law that generally requires automakers to sell vehicles through franchised dealerships. Tesla remains the only manufacturer currently exempt from the rule in Washington.
Under the proposed legislation, Rivian and Lucid—which already operate showrooms in the state—would be allowed to complete vehicle sales directly to consumers. The bill advanced quickly after being introduced on Feb. 19 and passing through the Senate Transportation Committee.
Marko Liias, chair of the committee, described the measure as a negotiated solution between EV manufacturers and dealership representatives.
“I think on balance it’s a good compromise,” Liias said.
The legislation outlines specific eligibility requirements for automakers seeking to sell directly to customers. To qualify, companies must be based in the United States, manufacture only battery-electric vehicles, have at least 300 vehicles registered in Washington as of Jan. 1, operate at least one in-state service facility, and have no previous franchise agreements with dealerships.
Supporters say the criteria are designed to maintain the role of traditional franchise dealers while allowing certain EV-focused manufacturers to expand their sales models.
Abigail Ramsden said the measure could improve consumer access to electric vehicles while preserving existing dealership frameworks.
“The legislation honors the role of franchise dealerships while expanding access to electric vehicles for Washingtonians,” Ramsden said.
Daniel Witt said the negotiations demonstrated cooperation between automakers and dealers.
The bill is “a testament to what is possible when EV manufacturers and dealers can come together … to support a framework that benefits Washington businesses and consumers alike,” Witt said, according to KPQ.
The legislative push follows political pressure earlier this year after Rivian contributed $4.5 million to a political action committee advocating for direct EV sales and pledged up to $20 million more toward a potential ballot initiative in 2026 if lawmakers failed to act.
Despite the compromise, some industry groups remain opposed. Curt Augustine said all automakers should operate under the same regulatory framework.
“We fundamentally believe all automakers should operate under the same set of rules,” Augustine said.
Concerns have also been raised by Amy Walen, who questioned whether the bill provides fair treatment across the industry.
“We shouldn’t pick winners and losers and we’re doing it again,” Walen said.
If approved, the measure could reshape how electric vehicles are sold in Washington while maintaining the broader franchise dealership system for most automakers.
