Elon Musk's Tesla electric automobile made its grand entry into "amchi Mumbai" on a rain-soaked Tuesday. The US major's swank "Experience Centre" at BKC was opened by chief minister Devendra Fadnavis amidst fanfare. Said Fadnavis: Tesla's arrival would significantly strengthen Mumbai's electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.
The CM noted that Tesla's move to open its "Experience Centre" marks the American EV giant's formal entry into the Indian market. He was particularly happy that the company had chosen to open its first showroom in Mumbai. He observed that "Mumbai is a symbol of innovation.
It represents sustainability. Tesla is not just a car company -- it stands for design, innovation, and sustainability." He said the company was also working on developing a robust ecosystem for delivery, logistics, and servicing in the region. "Tesla is setting up four major charging stations in Mumbai, which will help build a large-scale charging infrastructure in the city," he added.
He emphasised that Maharashtra is now emerging as a leader in EVs and mobility, thanks to its supportive policies for charging infrastructure and manufacturing incentives, which are drawing global companies to the state.
Tesla has launched its journey in India with the introduction of its popular Model Y. The rear-wheel drive (RWD) variant of the Model Y is priced at Rs 59.89 lakh (ex-showroom). The company has also unveiled the long-range RWD variant of the Model Y, priced at Rs 67.89 lakh.
Recalling his first encounter with Tesla in the United States, Fadnavis said, "Back in 2015, I had my first ride in a Tesla in the US, and I realised then that this is the kind of vehicle we need for mobility in India."
He added, "It may have taken you 10 years to get here, but we are thrilled you've finally arrived. I believe the people of Mumbai and rest of India will truly embrace Tesla. Once you begin vehicle deliveries, India will undoubtedly become one of your best markets."
Musk who had in the past cited India's high import tariffs for the company not entering the country earlier, will be importing the Model Y as a completely built unit (CBU), from its Shanghai facility.
The deliveries are slated to start in the third and fourth quarter of 2025, respectively, for the two variants.
Initially, registration and delivery will start in Delhi, Mumbai, and Gurugram, the company said, adding that through its Tesla Design Studio, customers will be able to customise their Model Y exterior, interior, and even its features.
The rear-wheel drive variant has a range of 500 km while that of the long-range rear wheel drive is 622 km on a single charge.
The Model Y will compete with a range of electric luxury cars from German automakers such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi.
Electric vehicles from Indian manufacturers Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra are priced below Rs 30 lakh.
In the US, the Model Y long-range rear-wheel drive variant is available at USD 37,490 on cash payment.
Tesla chief for the Asia Pacific ( APAC) region Isabel Fan said Tesla has redefined transportation and the company's goal is to set a great ecosystem to share technology.
Mumbai Experience Centre is meant for engaging customers, she said, adding that plans are to set up four charging stations each in Mumbai and Delhi. Tesla said it is "committed and excited" to help drive a zero-emission and greener future in India.
"As part of Tesla's commitments in India, the company will continue to develop the experience center, service and support, and charging infrastructure in the country, aimed at delivering a seamless Tesla ownership experience," the company said.
Tesla's drive into India through the import route comes amid the government wooing EV makers to set up manufacturing plant in the country.
Last month the government had notified guidelines under the Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India, allowing import of up to 8,000 electric four-wheeler units annually at a lower import duty of 15 per cent, against 70-100 per cent currently, provided they commit an investment of Rs 4,150 crore for setting up local manufacturing facilities. The scheme was first announced on March 15 last year.
US President Donald Trump has said if Tesla were to build a factory in India to circumvent that country's tariffs, it would be "unfair" to the US.
Musk had said last April that his visit to India had been delayed due to the company's heavy obligations. He had said in 2022 that Tesla, which was earlier seeking reduction in import duties to sell its vehicles in India, would not manufacture its products unless it is allowed to first sell and service its cars in the country.
The electric car maker was seeking an initial tariff concession that would allow it to offset 70 per cent of customs duty for cars priced less than USD 40,000, and 100 per cent for cars of higher value.
However, earlier this year, Union commerce minister Piyush Goyal stated that India will not tailor its policies to suit Tesla, and its laws and tariff rules will be formulated to attract all-electric vehicle manufacturers from across the globe to set up a base in the world's fastest-growing economy.
Last month, Tesla India took on lease 24,565 sq ft warehousing space in Lodha Logistics Park in Mumbai for five years.
Tesla has made its India debut at a time when it is facing reduced sales in Europe and China.
Last week, Tesla India Motors and Energy Pvt Ltd -- the Indian subsidiary of the company -- had received a trade certificate from the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Andheri. Such a certificate allows the company to showcase its vehicles, conduct test drives, and begin sales.
Trade certificates are a necessary requirement under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules for vehicle dealers or manufacturers looking to operate unregistered vehicles for trials or promotional activities.
(With inputs from PTI & IANS)
