Tesla is building a global network of owned stores and service centres, where consumers will be able to learn about electric motoring and build their car using interactive displays. These will be located in high footfall areas, such as shopping malls, and are based on senior executive George Blankenship’s experience designing Apple’s retail network.

In December, the carmaker was granted a full Class 1 Dealer License by the Town of Natick’s Board of Salesmen, allowing them to trade in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The MSADA had previously requested a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction against Tesla Motors, which was denied.

The following lawsuit was dismissed based on the dealers’ lack of standing and failure to state a claim, and the MSADA has responded by filing another separate lawsuit against the individual Selectmen of the Natick Board.

Elon Musk, Tesla co-founder and chief executive officer, said: ‘We think this subsequent lawsuit is a very unfortunate action taken by the Massachusetts State Automobile Dealers Association against a group of individual citizens who thoroughly reviewed our request for a Class 1 Dealer License and thoughtfully made a decision that was both legal and in the best interests of the citizens of Natick. We look forward to supporting the Board of Selectmen in this case.’