Our Bureau
Mumbai
Tesla has officially marked its entry into the Indian automotive market with the launch of its Model Y, a midsize electric SUV that has quickly become the brand’s global bestseller. The company inaugurated its first Tesla Experience Centre in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), signaling a serious commitment to India’s growing electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem.
The unveiling of the Model Y was accompanied by high-level state endorsements. Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde took a ride in the Tesla outside the state assembly building, Vidhan Bhavan, and called the occasion “a big deal,” emphasizing that Tesla’s presence reflects Maharashtra’s appeal as an investment destination.
“Maharashtra has the highest foreign direct investment (FDI), good infrastructure, and an industry-friendly environment,” Shinde said. “Investors are willing to invest in Maharashtra, and Tesla coming here is a strong message to the world.”
Joining him was Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who formally inaugurated the Tesla Experience Centre. Fadnavis hailed Tesla’s arrival as a pivotal moment not just for Mumbai, but for India’s electric mobility future.
“Tesla has arrived — and it has arrived in the right city and the right state,” Fadnavis declared. “The launch of Model Y and establishment of charging and logistics infrastructure proves Tesla’s long-term vision for India.”
Tesla’s debut offering in India, the Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), comes with impressive specs tailored to India’s urban and intercity needs. It offers a range of up to 500 kilometers on a single charge and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds.
With the Supercharge feature, the vehicle can gain 238 kilometers of range in about 15 minutes, addressing one of the key barriers to EV adoption: charging time.
Inside, the Model Y doesn’t compromise on comfort or technology. The first-row seats feature power recline, heating, and ventilation, while the second row offers power two-way folding and heating. A nine-speaker sound system and dual touchscreens — a 15.4-inch panel in the front and an 8-inch screen in the rear — provide a futuristic driving experience that Tesla has become known for.
Tesla isn’t just launching a car — it’s laying the groundwork for a full-fledged ecosystem. Alongside the Mumbai showroom, the company is developing logistics and servicing systems, and establishing four major charging stations across Maharashtra.
This infrastructure-first approach mirrors Tesla’s strategy in other global markets, where ease of access to service and fast charging are seen as critical to adoption. Officials noted that this phased rollout sets the stage for Tesla’s eventual manufacturing ambitions in India.
“Maharashtra has the most dynamic electric mobility policy in the country,” said Fadnavis. “We are confident that when Tesla chooses to manufacture in India, this state will be their preferred destination.”
Tesla’s India debut comes at a time when the Indian government is aggressively pushing for a transition to electric mobility. With central and state incentives, FAME-II subsidies, and a rapidly expanding EV ecosystem, India is positioning itself as both a market and a manufacturing hub for the EV industry.
Maharashtra, in particular, has taken a lead with its state EV policy, offering incentives for manufacturers, charging infrastructure developers, and buyers alike. Tesla’s move fits neatly into this framework and is expected to accelerate the adoption of EVs in metro areas like Mumbai and Pune.
Despite the fanfare, Tesla still faces significant hurdles in India — from high import duties on fully built units to price sensitivity among Indian consumers. The Model Y, while premium, will likely cater to the luxury segment unless localized production brings down prices.
However, Tesla’s strategic patience and methodical entry — beginning with experience centres and infrastructure — suggest that the company is playing the long game. Its move could also prompt competitors to innovate faster, improving EV offerings across segments.
Industry watchers say the Model Y launch is just the beginning. Tesla is reportedly in talks with Indian officials about setting up a manufacturing plant, possibly with an eye on exports as well. The entry into India — the world’s third-largest car market — could prove pivotal for Tesla’s long-term growth in Asia.
For now, Maharashtra is celebrating a win — not just for its reputation as an industrial powerhouse, but for being the state that brought the world’s most iconic EV brand to Indian roads.
“It’s a statement to the world,” said Fadnavis. “Tesla is not just here — it has chosen to start here.”
