Tesla's strategy and the free market

To the Editor: 

I have been in the automotive industry for 33 years with both dealerships and suppliers. 

None of the arguments that Maryann Keller presented in her column about Tesla can be resolved within the definition of a free market economy ("Tesla's arguments in defense of direct sales are wrong," Oct. 24). 

Whether Tesla succeeds or fails with its strategy should be of no concern to any dealer network. Only an insecure group like the Virginia Automobile Dealers Association could be interested in keeping another vehicle from the market. 

Franchise laws are in place for one reason, and it is not to protect the consumer. If I remember correctly, Michigan's version was adopted hastily specifically to prevent Tesla's direct marketing efforts. I wonder how much money went into the campaign coffers of our state legislature to get that one passed. 

WADE SINGLER South Haven, Mich.