Thread by @mliebow

@EVClubCT @cleantechnica @Tesla @AcadiaCtr @Sustainne @paulbraren @BeckerBruceR @LevieffPhil @SamDynowski Connecticut is one of only six remaining states in the country that hasn’t allowed @Tesla to sell direct. Begs question: are we leaders or laggards? EVs are at a tipping point, and the direct sales model is the way — versus a 100 year old franchise model.

A thread.

@EVClubCT @cleantechnica @Tesla @AcadiaCtr @Sustainne @paulbraren @BeckerBruceR @LevieffPhil @SamDynowski The ICE market crash is coming along with the franchise model. It’s the point when residuals plummet. Compared to Norway with a pop of 5.3 million, 50% EV share or 347k registered. CT has pop of 3.5 million and only 14k registered. We need to reduce friction and encourage change

@EVClubCT @cleantechnica @Tesla @AcadiaCtr @Sustainne @paulbraren @BeckerBruceR @LevieffPhil @SamDynowski Listening today, our State reps have no firsthand EV knowledge, instead rely on friends for information, and many have preconceived notions regarding affordability. Worse, there’s misguided belief that Tesla wouldn’t generate tax revenue from sales, staff or property.

@EVClubCT @cleantechnica @Tesla @AcadiaCtr @Sustainne @paulbraren @BeckerBruceR @LevieffPhil @SamDynowski Not so shockingly, many gave deference to the franchise model. Having owned many ICE vehicles, their model is anything but consumer friendly, and often leave consumers stuck with defects. Their value prop is end of life, replaced by direct to consumer.

@EVClubCT @cleantechnica @Tesla @AcadiaCtr @Sustainne @paulbraren @BeckerBruceR @LevieffPhil @SamDynowski Regarding their concerns: 

Safety: EVs are safest vehicles on road

Service: Mobile services delights consumer at home or at work.

Affordability: EVs are getting cheaper and have low TCO, beating best sellers like Camry.

evannex.com/blogs/news/tot…

@EVClubCT @cleantechnica @Tesla @AcadiaCtr @Sustainne @paulbraren @BeckerBruceR @LevieffPhil @SamDynowski The State reps are confused by FUD fed to them by dealers. The fact is Tesla customer sat is far superior over ICE.

bloomberg.com/graphics/2019-…

@EVClubCT @cleantechnica @Tesla @AcadiaCtr @Sustainne @paulbraren @BeckerBruceR @LevieffPhil @SamDynowski By spending time debating direct sales, CT misses the opportunity to lead.

⚡️We should debate how to attract Tesla is build a manufacturing plant and train/employ CT workers. 

⚡️Debate how CT can be a leader in fully autonomous vehicles.

@EVClubCT @cleantechnica @Tesla @AcadiaCtr @Sustainne @paulbraren @BeckerBruceR @LevieffPhil @SamDynowski Going to any surrounding State to buy an EV is inconvenient but not the end of the world. Being viewed as a laggard, a holdout while the rest of the country sheds a 100-yr old model, that’s the real problem. Send the right message. Lead.

@EVClubCT @cleantechnica @Tesla @AcadiaCtr @Sustainne @paulbraren @BeckerBruceR @LevieffPhil @SamDynowski If you live in the State, please contact your local representative and encourage them to support SB127. The time is now.

@EVClubCT @cleantechnica @Tesla @AcadiaCtr @Sustainne @paulbraren @BeckerBruceR @LevieffPhil @SamDynowski @threadreaderapp please unroll