Costco Auto dealer $1000 down for Prius Wait List

I want a new ‘24 Prius which are in short supply. The dealer contact I have from the Costco Auto program wants $1000 to get on the wait list, not even a literal order. Is this standard practice for Costco deals or for working with dealers in general? This limits me working with other dealers, as well as not being an actual order for a vehicle. Thanks for advice.

I had to put a deposit down on my Tesla. I think this is coming for Built To Order vehicles and high demand vehicles

Hi Ozzie- Darren here from the Costco Auto Program corporate communications team. I want to make sure everything goes smoothly and according to the Costco Auto Program way. If you would like one of our Member Advocates to reach out and assist you, please email me at autoprogram@costcoauto.com