Tesla Officially Enters India with First Showroom in Mumbai
On July 15, 2025, Tesla made its long-anticipated debut in India by opening its first showroom at Maker Maxity Mall, located in the upscale Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai. This marks a major step for the American electric vehicle (EV) giant as it enters the world’s third-largest automobile market.
The Tesla Experience Centre
The new facility is officially called the Tesla Experience Centre, and it is now open to the public. More than just a retail space, it is designed as a flagship hub where customers can explore Tesla’s vehicles, learn about its technology, and get a feel for the brand’s unique identity. Visitors can see the cars up close, take test drives, and receive assistance with online bookings.
Launch of the Tesla Model Y in India
To kick off its operations in India, Tesla has launched the Model Y, one of its most successful global models. This all-electric SUV was the world’s best-selling vehicle—not just among EVs—in both 2023 and 2024. The Model Y will be available in two variants for Indian buyers:
-
Base Model (Standard Rear-Wheel Drive)
-
Price: ₹59.89 lakh (ex-showroom Mumbai)
-
Battery: 60 kWh
-
Range: 500 km
-
0–100 km/h in 5.9 seconds
-
-
Long-Range Model (Rear-Wheel Drive)
-
Price: ₹67.89 lakh (ex-showroom Mumbai)
-
Battery: 75 kWh
-
Range: 622 km
-
0–100 km/h in 5.6 seconds
-
Both variants have a top speed of 201 km/h and come with Tesla’s signature minimalist interior, large touchscreen interface, and full self-driving hardware (though FSD features are not yet activated in India).
Why Is the Model Y So Expensive in India?
Many consumers have noted that the Model Y is significantly more expensive in India than in other major markets. For comparison:
-
India: ₹59.89–₹67.89 lakh
-
U.S.: ₹38.6 lakh ($44,990)
-
China: ₹30.5 lakh (¥263,500)
-
Germany: ₹46 lakh (€45,970)
The primary reason for this price hike is India’s steep import duties. Fully built cars imported as Completely Built Units (CBUs) attract duties of up to 100%, along with other taxes. Since Tesla is currently importing vehicles from its Shanghai Gigafactory and hasn’t committed to local manufacturing, these added costs are passed on to consumers.
Targeting the Luxury EV Segment
Tesla’s pricing makes it clear that it is aiming at India’s premium EV market rather than mass adoption—for now. This places it in competition with high-end brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi, which have also launched electric models in India. It is not directly competing with domestic EV makers like Tata Motors or Mahindra at this stage.
Industry Response and Market Outlook
The launch has generated considerable excitement in the Indian auto and tech community. Anand Mahindra, Chairman of the Mahindra Group, tweeted a playful welcome to Tesla, suggesting they might meet “at a charging station” someday.
A Tesla official noted that the company has already seen a strong response through its online booking platform, especially in Mumbai and Delhi. However, the move has also sparked some criticism from Indian government officials and industry analysts, who argue that Tesla’s decision to skip local manufacturing runs counter to the country’s “Make in India” initiative.
A Strategic Move Amid Global Headwinds
Tesla’s India launch comes at a time when the company is facing declining sales in key markets like the U.S. and China. A mix of market saturation, rising competition, and controversies involving CEO Elon Musk have contributed to the slowdown.
Nevertheless, entering India could offer Tesla a fresh growth path. While EVs made up only 2% of total car sales in India last year, the government has set an ambitious goal of 30% EV adoption by 2030.
Final Thoughts
Tesla’s debut in India is more than a showroom opening—it’s a strategic signal that the country is becoming a key battleground for the future of electric mobility. While the cars are pricey, the brand’s innovation and global reputation could spark broader interest in EVs and encourage faster infrastructure development across the country.
Join our community for latest update :- https://kheltantra.in/
