[IG_Semmelweiss]

To be specific, the objective of state statutes is to block direct manufacturer auto sales. The objective is achieved in a roundabout way: the statutes written prevent the establishment of physical dealership locations owned by the manufacturers. They are not broad enough to restrict direct sales. This means that some creative sales techniques can be used, if you:

(a) don't need to have cars in a lot,

(b) can sell online,

(c) tolerate some uncertainty while interpretation of status is fought in court.

Then, you can (in many states), sell cars directly.

Tesla does all 3 as they usually don't have (a) inventory and in some cases, the law doesnt prohibit showrooms (b) seem perfectly comfortable selling you the car online (and critically, customers are ok with this too) and (c) have money to fight for settlement of the issues.

Theres even more creative sales now - tesla is actively setting up sales ops in Indian reservations - which have their own sets of the laws outside of specific states.

Edit: added (c) which is certainly an important factor in many states