Tesla is set to begin operations in India by opening its first showroom in Mumbai, expected in July. The space is reportedly located in the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), a major commercial district. Additional outlets in Delhi and Bengaluru may follow. This marks Tesla’s first physical entry into the Indian market after years of delays caused by regulatory and import duty challenges.
Initial Offerings To Be Made In China
In the initial phase, Tesla will import its vehicles from its Shanghai facility. The first model expected is the Model Y, a mid-size electric SUV. These units will arrive as Completely Built Units (CBUs), which means they’ll be subject to high import taxes. As a result, pricing is expected to begin above ₹50 lakh. There is currently no India-specific product in the lineup, and the company seems to be assessing market interest before making long-term plans.
Low Volume Rollout And Operational Hiring
Tesla is not expected to target high sales volumes in the beginning. Its early showrooms are likely to function as display and experience centers rather than large retail outlets. The company is reportedly hiring for various roles in sales and technical support, indicating a gradual setup of its operations. While there have been discussions about local assembly or manufacturing, nothing has been officially confirmed at this stage.
Positioning Within The EV Market
Tesla’s entry introduces another global player into India’s growing electric vehicle segment. While Indian manufacturers like Tata Motors and Mahindra have already established a presence, Tesla’s inclusion could influence future market dynamics. It may also lead to increased interest from policymakers and investors in EV-related infrastructure. However, the brand’s pricing and limited availability suggest that its short-term market impact will be modest.
Tesla’s current approach seems focused on evaluating demand and building brand recognition rather than pushing for immediate growth. The showroom launches and initial imports indicate a testing phase, not a full-fledged market entry. Whether the company will expand operations or introduce localised manufacturing will depend on how the market responds in the coming months.
