Why You Still Can't Buy A New Car Online

While technology allows us to automate almost every other aspect of modern life, the American car-buying experience remains trapped in a legally mandated 20th-century loop. This systemic frustration is fueled by powerful dealer associations and protectionist state laws—particularly in states like Alabama—that force consumers into “ritual combat” with salespeople rather than allowing direct-to-consumer online sales. Even as new EV players like Tesla and Scout Motors attempt to bypass this “toxic marriage” through legal loopholes, legacy manufacturers remain shackled to traditional franchises, ensuring that “independent” dealers—and their $10,000 market adjustments—remain the gatekeepers of the American driveway. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit misongrey.substack.com