Tesla’s bold entry into India will start with a Mumbai experience centre, followed by Delhi, bringing electric vehicles to a dynamic market
Tesla is making waves in India’s electric vehicle (EV) market. The company, led by Elon Musk, will open its first Tesla India showroom, called an “experience centre,” in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex on July 15, 2025.
A second showroom is planned for New Delhi by late July. This move marks Tesla’s entry into the world’s third-largest auto market. But what does this mean for Indian consumers? How will Tesla India compete in this vibrant landscape?
What Models and Features Can Buyers Expect?
Why would someone visit a Tesla India experience centre? The Mumbai showroom will showcase the Model Y, a sleek SUV imported from Tesla’s Shanghai factory.
Deliveries are set to begin by late August, with customers able to configure orders next week. The Model Y offers a long-range option, boasting up to 535 km of range, advanced driver-assistance systems like Autopilot, and a minimalist interior with a 15-inch touchscreen.
Will these features appeal to India’s tech-savvy buyers? The centre will also display Superchargers and accessories, giving a glimpse into Tesla’s ecosystem. Could this hands-on experience shift perceptions about EVs in India?
Pricing, however, is a hurdle. Each Model Y is valued at around ₹27 Lakhs ($31,988), with import duties adding over ₹21 Lakhs due to India’s 70% tariff on imported cars. Can Tesla India balance premium quality with affordability in a price-sensitive market?
How Will Tesla Fare Against India’s EV Competition?
India’s EV market is heating up. How will Tesla India stack up against rivals? Local giants like Tata Motors dominate with feature-rich models like the Nexon EV, priced around ₹15 Lakhs.
BYD, a Chinese EV maker, is also expanding with models like the Atto 3, offering competitive range and pricing. Meanwhile, luxury brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz offer EVs with established dealer networks. Will Tesla’s global reputation and cutting-edge tech give it an edge?
India’s EV adoption is growing, but challenges remain. High import duties and limited charging infrastructure could slow Tesla’s growth. Yet, the company is hiring for charging and retail teams and leasing warehouse space in Karnataka and Gurugram.
Could Tesla’s Supercharger network transform India’s EV landscape? The Mumbai and Delhi showrooms signal Tesla’s commitment to urban markets, but will rural expansion follow?
Why This Matters for India
Tesla’s entry is more than just showrooms. It’s a bet on India’s green future. With rising fuel costs and government EV incentives, Tesla India could spark wider adoption.
The experience centres will let buyers test-drive and explore, potentially reshaping perceptions. But can Tesla navigate India’s complex market dynamics? Only time will tell.
