South Carolina lawmakers are set to consider a new law that would allow direct vehicle sales between manufacturers and consumers. Scout Motors, which is nearing completion of its production facility in Blythewood, will testify in favor of the SC Consumer Freedom Act (H.3777). The bill aims to create an option for buyers who want to purchase vehicles directly from manufacturers without existing franchised dealerships.
If passed, the law would allow customers to buy vehicles on a mobile app and have everything from repairs to upgrades handled through the company’s platform. This change would require an update to current state law, which prohibits direct online sales or showroom purchases and mandates dealer involvement for all new vehicle sales.
Governor Henry McMaster expressed support for the bill, citing customer demand for greater freedom in buying vehicles directly without middlemen. The bill is scheduled for its first hearing on Wednesday morning in the Business & Commerce Subcommittee of the SC House Labor, Commerce & Industry Committee.
Source: https://wpde.com/news/local-politics/scout-motors-testimony-could-change-sc-law