Tesla officially entered India on July 15, 2025, opening its first showroom in Mumbai’s upscale Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC). This showroom—dubbed an “experience center”—features two Model Y variants: Standard Rear-Wheel Drive and Long‑Range RWD, with bookings now open.
Prices start at ₹59.89 lakh (about $70,000) for the base model and go up to ₹67.89 lakh for the long-range version. These prices include hefty import duties—up to 70–100%—making the Model Y nearly double its U.S. cost.
Deliveries are expected to begin in India by the third quarter of 2025 (August–September). Tesla will initially import fully built cars from overseas; local manufacturing is not planned yet, though some experts believe future price cuts may occur if Tesla eventually sets up a factory in India.
Mumbai’s showroom also includes service and spare parts support, with plans underway to install Supercharger stations in Mumbai and Delhi-NCR.
Reactions to Tesla’s entry have been mixed. Urban EV enthusiasts are excited, with influencers and car forums buzzing over test drives and specs. But many question the steep price due to tariffs. Netizens have jokingly dubbed Tesla “TAX‑LA” in India, highlighting the high cost.
Maharashtra's Deputy CM Eknath Shinde even took a spin in the Tesla at the state assembly to promote EV adoption—but his move drew criticism from local leaders who argue demands for reduced duties and faster local manufacturing policy have been ignored.
Why it matters for consumers
Luxury appeal: Tesla joins premium brands like BMW and Mercedes with its Model Y.
High tech: Known for autopilot features, fast charging, and minimalist interiors, Tesla brings EV tech to Indian roads.
Expensive entry: With nearly 70% import tax, the Model Y is priced well above mass-market Indian EVs.
Infrastructure promise: Tesla plans quick charging networks, signaling serious commitment to Indian EV growth.
Tesla’s Mumbai launch marks a bold step into India’s EV market, targeting affluent buyers and signaling potential future growth. While excitement is building around Tesla’s offerings, high import taxes and premium pricing have sparked criticism. Consumers can now book a Model Y and expect deliveries later this year as Tesla explores deeper roots in India.
