Electric Car Showroom Could Be Magnificent for Michigan Avenue

Michigan Avenue’s “Magnificent Mile” may get an entirely new set of visitors as electric car maker Tesla Motors is negotiating a lease to open a showroom space at the Park Hyatt Chicago, 800 N. Michigan Ave.

The auto manufacturer could take over nearly 10,000 square feet of prime space that most recently was the home to Italian clothing store Giorgio Armani, sources have told Crain’s Chicago.

“The lease has not been finalized, and it’s possible the deal could fall through. If completed, the lease would bring a new type of showroom to North Michigan Avenue, where in recent years some retailers have shifted their focus to showcasing their wares to consumers who are likely to buy them later online.”

Tesla’s rechargeable cars have become “a status symbol for affluent car aficionados” in recent years. The California-based company has service centers in Chicago and Highland Park and stores at the Oakbrook Center and Westfield Old Orchard malls.

more via Crain’s Chicago