prohibited in almost every state by franchise laws requiring that new cars be sold only by dealers. In response, Tesla has opened city centre galleries where prospective customers can view cars that can only be ordered online. These stores were inspired by the Apple Stores. Tesla's model was the first of its kind, and has given them unique advantages as a new car company. Dispute At least one study has found that franchises increase car costs. Additionally, the issuance of new dealership licenses is subject to geographical restriction; if there is already a dealership for a company in an area, no one else can open one. This has led to dealerships becoming in essence hereditary, with families running dealerships in an area since the original issuance of their license with no fear of competition or any need to prove qualification or consumer benefit (beyond proving they meet minimum legal standards), as franchises in most jurisdictions can only be withdrawn for illegal activity and no other reason. This has led to consumer campaigns for establishment or reform, which have been met by huge lobbying efforts by franchise holders. New companies trying to enter the market, such as Tesla, have been restricted by this model and have either been forced out or been forced to work around the franchise model, facing constant legal pressure. Multibrand car dealers Multibrand and multimaker car dealers sell cars from different and independent carmakers. Some are specialized in electric vehicles. Auto transport Auto transport is used to move vehicles from the factory to the dealerships. This includes international and domestic shipping. It was largely a commercial activity conducted by manufacturers, dealers, and brokers. Internet use has encouraged this niche service to expand and reach the general consumer marketplace. See also Auto auction Auto row Automaker Car broker Car rental List of auto dealership and repair shop buildings Showroom Used car Organizations AutoBidsOnline Carfax Kelley Blue Book Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations of India (FADA) National Automobile Dealers Association Presidential Task Force on the Auto Industry References Further reading External links EU car dealership reforms