rivian direct vs. boots on the ground

Rivian wants to sell direct in every state. There are currently 27 states that prevent car dealers from selling direct. Tesla has limited agreements with some of these states allowing them to direct sell (19). Jim Chen of Rivian, who used to work for Tesla, wants to change that. Rivian currently sells most of its vehicles online. So far, Rivian has only been successful getting permission in a handful of states. Rivian may be forced to to go the form over substance route- by opening galleries that allow vehicles to be viewed but not purchased to meet these requirements. One important side note- Mr. Chen’s cowboy boots are often a topic of conversation!