
Tesla sells cars directly to consumers through its website and company-owned stores, completely bypassing traditional third-party dealerships. This direct sales model is a core part of its strategy. You can buy a Tesla in two primary ways: online through Tesla's official website or in-person at a Tesla Store or Gallery located in shopping malls or retail centers. There are no independent Tesla dealerships.
This approach allows Tesla to control the entire customer experience, from initial inquiry to final delivery. The online configurator lets you build your car, see transparent pricing, and even apply for financing in a few clicks. Physical locations serve as showrooms where you can see the vehicles, ask questions, and take a test drive, but the actual purchase is typically completed online.
A key advantage of this model is unbundled pricing. The price you see is the price you pay, without the traditional back-and-forth negotiation common at franchise dealerships.
| Aspect | Tesla's Direct Model | Traditional Franchise Dealership |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Point | Tesla website & company-owned stores | Independent, franchised dealerships |
| Price Negotiation | Fixed, non-negotiable pricing | Negotiable pricing is standard |
| Inventory Source | Direct from Tesla factory | Purchased from the manufacturer |
| Sales Process | Integrated online/offline experience | Primarily in-person at the dealership |
| Test Drives | Available at Tesla Stores & Galleries | Available at the dealership |
| Delivery | Often at Tesla Delivery Centers | Directly from the dealership lot |
After ordering, you'll schedule delivery at a Tesla Delivery Center. Some locations even offer direct home or office delivery. Service is handled separately at Tesla Service Centers, ensuring specialized support for their electric vehicles.

Just go to Tesla's website. Seriously, that's the main place. You pick your model, customize the color and wheels, and order it right there. It's like buying a laptop. If you want to sit in one first, find a Tesla store at your local mall. They can answer questions and set up a test drive, but they'll still tell you to finish the order online. No haggling with a sales manager, which is a huge plus.

I was skeptical about buying a car without a dealership, but the process was straightforward. I configured my Model Y on Tesla's website, which showed the exact cost including potential savings. A week later, I picked it up at a Tesla delivery center. The entire experience was efficient and pressure-free. The key difference is the lack of negotiation; the price is what it is. For service, you use the Tesla app to schedule appointments at their dedicated service centers.


