Rivan Wins Lawsuit Against Illinois Dealers After Judge Dismisses Case

Arguing against Rivian and Lucid, the IADA stated that under state law, only third-party franchisees (for example, Bob Smith Honda of Chicago) may sell new vehicles to consumers. The secretary’s earlier issuance of permits to Tesla arguably created precedence that has since overruled state law, at least in the eyes of Associate Judge Atkins. The verdict can be appealed per Illinois law.

“The Illinois legislature has had ample opportunity, and has at least once expressly considered explicitly prohibiting manufacturers of automobiles from being licensed as dealers thereof,” reads Atkins’ verdict. “It has declined to do so, and it is thus reasonable to conclude that it had no such intent.”