Tesla, the world's leading electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has officially made its debut in India with the launch of the Tesla Model Y. The move marks a significant milestone in India's EV journey, attracting attention from auto enthusiasts, investors, and green energy advocates. With the first showroom launched in Mumbai, Tesla has brought its globally acclaimed vehicle directly to Indian consumers.
Where is Tesla’s First Showroom in India?
Tesla’s debut showroom is located in the bustling Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) area of Mumbai, Maharashtra. Officially inaugurated on July 15, 2025, this flagship experience center spans approximately 4,000 square feet and is set up inside Maker Maxity Mall. This prime real estate move signals Tesla’s commitment to India’s luxury EV market.
Key Features:
- Tesla Experience Center with test drives and interactive vehicle demos
- Lease agreement signed for 5 years starting February 2025
- Ground floor display and rooftop delivery area
Upcoming showrooms are expected in Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai, expanding Tesla’s physical footprint in India over the next 12 months.
Who Owns and Operates Tesla India?
Tesla operates in India through its registered entity Tesla India Motors and Energy Pvt Ltd, incorporated in January 2021. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tesla Inc., headquartered in Austin, Texas.
Board of Directors:
- Vaibhav Taneja – Tesla’s global CFO and one of the key Indian-origin executives in the company
- Several Tesla US executives are also listed as stakeholders and decision-makers
Tesla’s India operations are managed directly by its global leadership, ensuring alignment with Elon Musk’s vision.
What Is the Price of Tesla Model Y in India?
Tesla has launched two variants of the Model Y in India:
1. Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
- Ex-showroom Price: ₹59.89 lakh
- Range: 574 km (WLTP)
- 0-100 km/h: ~5.4 seconds
2. Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
- Ex-showroom Price: ₹67.89 lakh
- Range: 527 km (WLTP)
- 0-100 km/h: ~4.6 seconds
Note: On-road prices may exceed ₹70–80 lakh depending on location, taxes, insurance, and optional add-ons like the Full Self-Driving (FSD) package.
Why Is It So Expensive?
Tesla’s cars are currently imported as fully built units (CBUs) from their Gigafactory in Shanghai. India levies import duties of 70%–100% on CBUs, significantly inflating the price.
What Are the Key Features of Tesla Model Y?
Tesla’s Model Y is known globally for its cutting-edge design, safety, and innovation. Here’s what Indian buyers can expect:
Exterior
- Sleek, aerodynamic SUV design
- 19” Gemini wheels (upgradeable)
- Panoramic glass roof
Interior
- 15.4-inch touchscreen with software-driven controls
- Premium sound system
- Wireless phone charging and 4 USB-C ports
Technology
- Autopilot standard, FSD upgrade optional
- Over-the-air (OTA) software updates
- Smart Summon and Parking Assist
Safety
- 5-star safety rating in US & Europe
- Multiple airbags and impact protection zones
When Will Deliveries Start?
Tesla has begun taking online bookings as of July 15, 2025. The estimated delivery timeline is:
- Q3 2025: Rear-Wheel Drive variant in Mumbai, Delhi, Gurgaon
- Q4 2025: Long-Range AWD variant and deliveries to additional cities
So far, Tesla has not disclosed the number of pre-bookings, but demand is reported to be strong based on initial test drives and media hype.
Estimated Waiting Time:
Depending on city and model, the wait time could range from 2 to 5 months.
Why Is Tesla Entering the Indian Market Now?
Tesla’s India entry has been delayed for years due to regulatory challenges, import duties, and the lack of local EV infrastructure. However, multiple recent developments changed the landscape:
- India’s new EV policy (2024) offers tariff relief to global EV players willing to invest locally
- Massive demand for EVs in luxury segments
- Government’s push for electric mobility
Tesla aims to capture early adopters in India’s growing EV space, despite pricing challenges.
How Is Tesla Planning Expansion in India?
Tesla has started with a top-down strategy, targeting premium customers first and gradually expanding.
Expansion Plans:
- New showrooms in Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune
- Service centers and Supercharger networks in metro cities
- Recruitments underway for sales, service, and operations staff
Tesla is also evaluating options for local manufacturing or assembly if sales targets are met and government incentives improve.
Who Are Tesla’s Competitors in India?
In the Indian EV market, Tesla will compete with both domestic and international brands.
Luxury EV Segment:
- BMW iX – ₹1.4 crore
- Mercedes EQB / EQE – ₹74 lakh to ₹1.39 crore
- Audi e-tron – ₹1.01 crore
- Jaguar I-PACE – ₹1.26 crore
Premium EV Alternatives:
- BYD Seal – ₹41 lakh
- Hyundai IONIQ 5 – ₹46 lakh
- Kia EV6 – ₹60 lakh
Tesla’s advantage lies in its software ecosystem, range efficiency, and brand appeal.
What Models Might Tesla Launch Next?
Tesla is expected to follow up with the Model 3 sedan, which has already been spotted in Indian homologation filings. The Model 3 could be launched in early 2026 if demand sustains.
Other models like Cybertruck, Roadster, or Model S/X are not planned yet, mainly due to high pricing and limited right-hand-drive support.
Challenges Tesla Might Face
Despite the excitement, Tesla has to overcome significant hurdles in India:
- High Pricing due to import duties
- Lack of nationwide charging infrastructure
- After-sales service coverage still developing
- Policy uncertainty around EV subsidies and manufacturing
However, Tesla’s global success shows that if anyone can change the game, it’s them.
Final Thoughts
Tesla’s Model Y launch in India is a bold and symbolic move that places India on the global EV map. While the pricing puts it in the luxury segment, early adopters and Tesla fans are welcoming the brand’s entry with enthusiasm.
If Tesla proceeds with local manufacturing or receives favorable government incentives, we could see a price correction and broader model availability.
