Tesla To Start Selling Cars On JD.com, One Of China's Largest E-Commerce Platforms, Claims Report

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Tesla is reportedly expanding its presence in the Chinese market by selling its electric vehicles through JD.com, one of China's most prominent e-commerce platforms. The move aims to bolster Tesla's sales and provide consumers with an additional avenue to purchase their electric vehicles, according to local media outlet LatePost.

Why it matters: Tesla does not use traditional auto dealerships. Instead, it opts for a direct sales model, a practice consistent worldwide. In place of franchised dealerships, Tesla employs physical stores, akin to companies like Apple, where customers can place orders for its electric cars.

In China, Tesla also operates official flagship stores on various online platforms such as JD.com, Tmall, and Douyin. However, these stores mostly offer peripheral products, such as merchandise, and do not provide options to purchase the company's cars. Tesla's flagship store on JD.com opened in February this year.

Tesla has made previous attempts to sell its vehicles on online platforms. In 2014, Tesla launched a flagship store on Tmall that allowed for Model S purchases. However, the program was terminated within a week, reportedly due to dissatisfaction from Tesla's US headquarters, as reported by LatePost.

What's happening: The decision to collaborate with a local e-commerce platform like JD.com would mark a strategic shift for Tesla, although it does provide the company with an additional means for consumers to order its cars. Citing a person familiar with the matter, LatePost stated that after JD.com launches its Tesla car ordering service, customers would also be able to place deposits for their vehicles on the platform.

This system, however, is still in development, as noted by the publication. Both Tesla and JD.com reportedly declined to comment. If accurate, Tesla China would likely experience a surge in orders, which would be beneficial to the company amid the rollout of vehicles like the new Model 3.

What we have: One of the standout features of the new Model 3 is its rear display, which functions much like the popular rear screens of the Model S and Model X. While the Model 3 Highland has not yet been launched in the US, you can enhance your Model 3 or Model Y with accessories that provide an impressive rear screen.

Consider our Tesla Model 3/Y Rear Android Entertainment Touch Screen H72. This stunning 7.2-inch display brings the theater experience to your car, making it perfect for movies, gaming, and more. Powered by Android 12, it grants access to a wide range of apps and endless entertainment. It also ensures passenger comfort with rear-seat air conditioning control.

Check out some fresh items from our Tesla shop here.  

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