Rivian filed a federal lawsuit Monday against Ohio’s Bureau of Motor Vehicles, challenging a 2014 state law that blocks new automakers from selling vehicles directly to consumers.
The law, heavily influenced by lobbying from the Ohio Automobile Dealers Association, gave Tesla a carve-out to sell directly but shut the door on future EV makers.
Rivian argues this violates consumer rights and suppresses competition. It calls the ban “irrational in the extreme” and seeks court approval to apply for a dealership license.
Currently, Ohioans can’t buy Rivian automobiles directly in-state. They must order from states where the EV maker is licensed and have the cars shipped to service centers in Ohio.
Rivian sells directly in 25 states and DC. It says Ohio’s restriction raises costs, reduces convenience, and limits consumer choice.
Broader fight over direct sales
Rivian has previously won similar legal fights in Illinois. Meanwhile, Lucid Motors is appealing a Texas court decision upholding a direct-sales ban. Rivian’s case could reshape how EVs are sold in Ohio and beyond.