Preliminary plans to locate a Tesla dealership on a vacant car lot on Hitchcock Way were approved 2/4 by Santa Barbara’s Architectural Board of Review. Tesla makes luxury electric cars known for their powerful engines, sweeping lines, and high prices. Although Tesla would give the existing lot a major makeover, the dealership operates differently than most. Only a few display vehicles would be kept on hand; cars would be ordered on demand, but a large service bay would be maintained. Although Tesla has garnered the key approval it needs from City Hall, the company has yet to sign a lease with the property owner.
