The Latest: Tesla says it's disappointed in Utah setback

Associated Press

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — The Latest on a Utah Supreme Court ruling on Tesla's bid to sell cars in the state (all times local):

6 p.m.

Tesla says it's disappointed that the Utah Supreme Court has ruled against the company in its push to sell sleek, all-electric vehicles in the state.

The company said in a statement Monday evening that it will pursue all options to sell in Utah, including working with the Legislature.

While Monday's ruling means Tesla can't currently sell its new cars in Utah, Tesla says it will continue offering service for Tesla cars in the state.

Utah's Supreme Court upheld a 2015 decision denying Tesla a license to sell new cars, citing a state law that bans car manufacturers from owning dealerships.

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2:05

The Utah Supreme Court has ruled against Tesla in a push to sell its sleek, all-electric vehicles in the state.

The court said in an opinion issued Monday that Utah's State Tax Commission was correct in a 2015 decision denying Tesla a license to tell its cars in Utah.

The company built a $3 million showroom in Salt Lake City but hasn't been able to sell new cars there because officials decided it would break state laws about car makers owning dealerships.

Tesla contends it must sell its own cars because its business depends on convincing customers that its electric cars are better than a car with a gas engine.

A message seeking comment from Tesla on Monday was not immediately returned.