Texas legislative issues/Operation Silent Thunder

[VolkerP]

But what do you expect from a traditionally oil driven state?

HOV stickers for 100% gas driven cars with <15mpg. Well they're supporting local business, don't they?

[W.Petefish]

While we are at it, we should try to get some of the benefits that other states have: HOV stickers, toll-free driving, tax exemption ... something. We got, essentially, nothing. But what do you expect from a traditionally oil driven state?

According to NCTCOG (North Central Texas Council of Governments), HOV lane access might be through a special license plate for EVs only. (Need to get back to them with that. I found this out on National Plug-In day.)

[dsm363]

How about a special EV plate with inspection and registration printed on the plate so no stickers needed on the windshield.

[sublimaze1]

According to NCTCOG (North Central Texas Council of Governments), HOV lane access might be through a special license plate for EVs only. (Need to get back to them with that. I found this out on National Plug-In day.)

This, most certainly, needs to be investigated. I looked at the website (NCTCOG) and it doesn't seem to give me any information on EV plates, EV discounts (e.g. tolls, etc.). Any further direction???

[ggies07]

Hi,

I'm new to the board, been lurking for a few months now. Love the company, the guy behind it, and "sustainable energy".

So I gather from the original post is that Tesla can't build a store in this state? I clicked on that linked on the first page and told me my senators are Hutchison and Cornyn. So I just call them up and asked for a change to the law?

[dsm363]

Welcome. They do have a store in Houston but can't talk to you about selling the car. This is really a state legislative issue so directing efforts there instead of towards US senators might be worth it. It would be interesting to see what Cornyn's office said and see if they could help push things along at the state level.

[sublimaze1]

Hi,

I'm new to the board, been lurking for a few months now. Love the company, the guy behind it, and "sustainable energy".

So I gather from the original post is that Tesla can't build a store in this state? I clicked on that linked on the first page and told me my senators are Hutchison and Cornyn. So I just call them up and asked for a change to the law?

Something like that.

Please make that phone call.

The unofficial gist is: non-private sales of automobiles in the stae of Texas must be sold through a dealership

Tesla does not use that model.

I would start your phone conversation (which will be a return call, not that initial call) with: "I tried to buy an American made car in Texas yesterday and was told I could not do that because of a law ... can you help me?"

[ggies07]

Welcome. They do have a store in Houston but can't talk to you about selling the car. This is really a state legislative issue so directing efforts there instead of towards US senators might be worth it. It would be interesting to see what Cornyn's office said and see if they could help push things along at the state level.

Something like that.

Please make that phone call.

The unofficial gist is: non-private sales of automobiles in the stae of Texas must be sold through a dealership

Tesla does not use that model.

I would start your phone conversation (which will be a return call, not that initial call) with: "I tried to buy an American made car in Texas yesterday and was told I could not do that because of a law ... can you help me?"

Ah, I see. Thanks guys! Will do.

[SteveH]

I'll start my calls today. Just to start setting expectations for the rest of us, could some Texan who has recently received their car or is in the process go through the steps? Specifically can you confirm:a) that payment must be made in before Tesla will ship the car, b) that taxes won't be included on the paperwork from Tesla and as a result, lenders won't include taxes on in the loan amount, c) whether or not a Tesla Delivery Specialist was allowed to accompany the car and if not, if they showed up later or how much later.

Thank you

[Jrhodesmd]

I wired tesla the money before they put it on the truck, as I guess the money can't change hands in Texas and its a truck driver delivering your car.
Taxes were not included in my paperwork. I was lucky enough to pay cash so I can't speak to the loan process. I had to go to the tax assessors office to register, pay taxes, and get my plates.
No delivery specialist. I read the manual, called HQ, and talked with my local service manager via phone.
Car is awesome, but to make it long term Tesla is going to have to do something about this.