Tesla Opens First Showroom in India, Starting at ₹60 Lakh: A New Chapter in India’s EV Landscape

Mumbai, July 15, 2025 — After years of negotiations, regulatory hurdles, and intense speculation, Tesla has officially marked its entry into the Indian automotive market. The U.S.-based electric vehicle giant opened its first showroom in India today, located at the upscale Maker Maxity Mall in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC).

This move is seen as a strategic step for Tesla, giving Indian consumers their first up-close look at the company’s vehicles—starting with the Model Y SUV.

A Soft Launch, With a Bold Message

The showroom quietly opened its doors on Monday without much fanfare. Inside, several imported Tesla Model Y vehicles, shipped from the company’s Shanghai Gigafactory, are now on display. This “experience center” is designed not just to sell vehicles, but to introduce Indian buyers to the Tesla brand and its unique ecosystem.

While sales have not officially started, bookings are now open. Deliveries are expected to begin by late August.

Pricing and Models

Tesla is initially offering two variants of the Model Y in India:

• Rear-Wheel Drive Model Y: Starting at around ₹60 lakh (approximately $72,000).
• Long-Range All-Wheel Drive Model Y: Priced closer to ₹68 lakh (roughly $81,000).

These prices are significantly higher than Tesla’s offerings in the U.S., China, or Europe due to India’s high import duties—up to 70% on fully assembled vehicles.

Retail-First Strategy, Production Later

Tesla’s entry into India comes via a “retail-first” model. Instead of setting up local manufacturing immediately, the company is importing fully built units for now. This approach allows Tesla to test the waters and assess demand before committing to local production.

The Indian government has long pushed Tesla to manufacture domestically to help reduce costs and support the country’s Make in India initiative. However, negotiations around tax breaks and policies for EVs are still ongoing.

More Showrooms on the Horizon

Mumbai is just the beginning. Tesla is reportedly planning to open another showroom in New Delhi later this month. Other major metro cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai could follow in the coming year.

There is also talk of Tesla establishing a charging network in key Indian cities to support early adopters, though details are yet to be confirmed.

What This Means for India’s EV Market

Tesla’s official launch is expected to shake up India’s electric vehicle segment, especially in the premium category. While current EV adoption is being driven largely by two-wheelers and affordable compact cars, Tesla’s arrival brings a new level of aspirational appeal.

However, with starting prices well above the average Indian car buyer’s budget, Tesla will initially cater to a niche market. Industry analysts say broader adoption may hinge on whether the company eventually commits to local assembly, which could help cut costs dramatically.

Looking Ahead

For now, Tesla’s India story is just beginning. The Mumbai showroom marks a pivotal moment—not just for Tesla, but for the broader EV movement in the country. As infrastructure develops, consumer awareness grows, and policy evolves, Tesla could become a key player in shaping India’s electric future.