Following years of conjecture, Tesla is finally scheduled to open its first store in India on July 15, 2025, a "experience center" in Mumbai's Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC). This marks a significant milestone in India's electric vehicle development and the beginning of Tesla's presence in one of the world's largest and most rapidly developing auto markets.
The First Centre in Mumbai, Next Stop Delhi
In anticipation of the launch, Tesla has shipped five Model Y SUVs from its Shanghai factory to Mumbai. A second store in New Delhi will open soon after the BKC facility, which will act as a showcase and sales center.
Tesla has stated that its first Indian cars will be entirely imported, with no immediate plans to build a production facility in India, despite early pressure to start local production. The showroom lease, which was signed back in February, is for five years and costs about $446,000 a year.
🚗 In the Line-Up: Model Y Leads the Charge
The Model Y, a small SUV that is very well-liked and the company's best-selling model worldwide, is being given priority. With its remarkable performance benchmarks, it is making its way to India in rear-wheel drive (RWD) form.
• Range: approximately 593 km (Chinese specification) to 559 km (with larger wheels).
• The RWD version accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in roughly 5.9 seconds.
• Interior & Features: Tesla's well-known driver-assist suite, a sleek 15.4-inch center console, an optional rear screen, and a panoramic glass roof.
Although the SUV-focused Model Y is leading the way among Indian consumers, the Model 3 sedan is also undergoing certification in India.
💵 Price Tag: Premium Entry
India has high import taxes (roughly 70% on fully-built EVs under $40,000), which will be reflected in Tesla's pricing. The Model Y's base price is listed at ₹27.7 lakh, but import taxes raise the total cost to over $56,000 (~₹48 lakh) before taxes and insurance are taken into account.
Although this places the Tesla at a significant premium, it is in line with the global luxury EV price range, though it poses a problem in India's price-sensitive market.
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🔧 What This Means for Indian EV Buyers
1. Instant EV Status Symbol
The Model Y offers instant prestige and access to Tesla’s powerful infotainment, over-the-air updates, and top-tier driver assistance.
2. Range and Performance That Impress
Thanks to its high range and brisk acceleration, the SUV can handle India’s long inter-city drives and urban demands.
3. Charging Experience
Tesla is expected to begin importing Supercharger hardware, though nationwide infrastructure will take time to develop beyond metro areas.
4. Market Signals & Local Impact
The launch will heighten competition in the luxury EV segment. With Tata, BYD, and Mercedes already evolving, Tesla’s entry may also encourage policymaking around reduced duties and local manufacturing in the future.
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🧭 The Road Ahead
Tesla’s Indian journey has begun—but the next moves will be critical:
• Market Uptake – Will Indian luxury buyers embrace a $56,000 EV?
• Local Production – Government incentives for local manufacturing could influence plans.
• Expanding Supercharger Network – Access to fast, reliable charging will be key.
• Competitive Response – Can ICE brands and other EV makers match Tesla’s technology?
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