Yes, you can buy a new car directly from a manufacturer, but it largely depends on the brand. This model, known as direct-to-consumer sales, is primarily used by newer electric vehicle (EV) companies like Tesla, Rivian, and Lucid. They operate company-owned stores and handle the entire purchase process online or in-person. However, most traditional automakers (e.g., Ford, Toyota, Chevrolet) are legally required to sell through independent, franchised dealerships due to long-standing state franchise laws.
The ability to buy direct is a state-by-state battle. These franchise laws were established decades ago to protect local dealerships from being undercut by the manufacturers themselves. While EV startups have successfully secured exemptions in many states, the legal landscape is complex and constantly changing. For traditional brands, your point of contact will almost always be a third-party dealership.
The direct sales process is typically streamlined. You configure your car on the manufacturer's website, place an order, and often secure financing and insurance through their integrated portals. The car is then delivered to a local service center or your home. This can eliminate the need for price negotiations, which many find appealing.
The table below shows the sales approach for various automakers in the U.S.:
| Manufacturer | Primary Sales Model | Notes on Direct Sales Availability |
|---|
| Tesla | Direct | Available nationwide, though some states limit the number of physical locations. |
| Rivian | Direct | Online orders with delivery to customer. |
| Lucid | Direct | Similar to Tesla's showroom and online model. |
| Ford | Franchised Dealership | Ford is creating a separate "Model e" division for EVs, but sales are still through dealers. |
| Toyota | Franchised Dealership | No direct sales option for consumers. |
| Chevrolet | Franchised Dealership | Sells EVs like the Bolt through traditional dealerships. |
| Polestar | Direct | Operates through "Polestar Spaces" in select locations, with online ordering. |
If you prefer a hassle-free, fixed-price experience, a direct-sale brand is a great option. For traditional brands, you'll need to work with a dealership, where negotiation skills can impact the final price.
