About 400 of Westport residents rallied Tuesday against a proposal to open a Tesla service center in the town.

The electric carmaker wants to open shop on Saugatuck Avenue, but neighbors are arguing that Tesla would alter the character of the quaint little strip, which is full of small shops and historic homes. The neighbors have signed a petition opposing the move.

The location would be a gallery and a service center, similar to what's in place on Post Road in Milford. The company sells directly to customers, so it would not be a dealership lot.

In a zoning application, Tesla argued that it would not be opening a normal car repair shop. The company said that since the cars are electric, fixing them is quieter and cleaner.

Westport's zoning board is expected to make a decision at its Thursday night meeting.