Which of the following does NOT fit the definition of a motor vehicle dealer?

The reason this choice is appropriate is that a motor vehicle dealer is typically defined as an entity or individual engaged in the business of selling motor vehicles to consumers or operating a dealership where they display and sell vehicles directly to the public.

Selling exclusively to wholesalers does not align with this definition, as it implies a business model that focuses on bulk sales rather than retailing to end consumers. A motor vehicle dealer’s primary role is to facilitate the purchase of vehicles for personal use, which inherently involves a direct relationship with the consumer.

In contrast, the other choices clearly align with the definition of a motor vehicle dealer. Selling to consumers directly is a fundamental aspect of being a dealer, operating a dealership is synonymous with being a dealer, and vehicles sold at auction can also be part of a dealer's operations, even though the auction format may differ from a traditional retail environment.