Rivian sues to sell its EVs directly in Ohio

Rivian has filed a federal lawsuit in Ohio seeking the right to sell its electric vehicles (EVs) directly to consumers, challenging the state's prohibition on direct sales that it argues harms consumer choice and competition. Currently, Rivian can sell directly in 25 states and Washington D.C., but Ohio law, enacted in 2014 after lobbying by the Ohio Automobile Dealers Association (OADA), blocks new manufacturers from obtaining dealership licenses for direct sales. This law notably carved out an exception for Tesla, which has been allowed to sell directly in Ohio since 2013. Rivian contends that Ohio’s restrictions are irrational and unconstitutional, increasing costs and inconvenience for consumers without any benefits. Rivian’s lawsuit highlights ongoing tensions between emerging EV manufacturers and traditional dealership networks, a battle seen in other states as well. The company points to its previous legal victories, such as obtaining dealership licenses in Illinois despite opposition from dealer associations, and notes similar challenges faced by Lucid Motors in Texas. Rivian argues