The dealers association argues that Tesla should be required to sell its cars through independent dealers, as other automobile manufacturers do, under a state law that prohibits manufacturers from owning dealerships in most circumstances.

Tesla, which only sells its cars online and directly to consumers, says its business model would make it impossible for independent dealers to sell the cars profitably.

The company said it was issued a dealers license this week by the Virginia Motor Vehicle Dealer Board.

Speaking to the crowd at the opening event, McAuliffe made it clear where he stands on the issue.

“When this first came to me, there was no question that they ought to be able to sell their cars here,” McAuliffe said. “This is competition. It’s important for our environment. It reduces the carbon emissions, which is something that we all care about here in Virginia.”

He called Tesla cars “clean technology.”

“This is part of what I call the new, 21st century Virginia economy,” he said.

The showroom has the company’s Model S and Model X cars on display.