(Sioux Falls, SD) — South Dakota EV Fair Access is seeking changes to state dealership licensing laws. The new group proposed the changes following the shutdown of a Tesla informational kiosk at The Empire Mall by the Department of Revenue. The kiosk reportedly violated laws requiring a licensed dealer’s principal place of business in the municipality for mall displays. South Dakota EV argues the rules exclude direct-to-consumer EV makers like Tesla, limiting local access to test drives, displays, and service. The state’s Automotive Dealers Association insists all manufacturers must follow the same rules to ensure consumer protection and a level playing field. The group now plans to lobby lawmakers to amend the law for modern EV commerce.
