Elon Musk’s Tesla is expected to commence electric vehicle sales in India by April, with prices anticipated to begin at Rs.21 lakh

The Aerocity area features a variety of hotels, retail establishments, and offices belonging to international companies.

Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, is expected to initiate the company’s retail activities in India by April of this year, beginning with imports from its Berlin facility, as reported by CNBC-TV18 on Wednesday, referencing sources with knowledge of the situation.

Tesla has not made a definitive commitment to produce its electric vehicles in India; however, the company intends to enhance its procurement of components from Indian original equipment manufacturers. As reported by CNBC-TV18, this sourcing initiative is projected to exceed $1 billion by the year 2025.

Showroom sites have been established in the BKC business district of Mumbai and in Aerocity, New Delhi. According to the report, the preliminary strategy involves launching an electric vehicle aimed at the Indian market, with a price point below $25,000 (approximately ₹21 lakh).

Estimated Prices of Tesla Cars in India

Tesla cars are anticipated to start at approximately ₹21 lakh ($25,000) in India, positioning them as premium electric vehicle (EV) options within the country’s market. Below are the estimated prices for various Tesla models:

• Tesla Cybertruck – ₹50.70 lakh
• Tesla Model 2 – ₹45 lakh
• Tesla Model 3 – ₹60 lakh
• Tesla Model Y – ₹70 lakh
• Tesla Model S – ₹1.50 crore
• Tesla Model X – ₹2 crore

(Note: Prices are approximate and may vary.)

The Indian government is likely to introduce incentives and tax benefits aimed at promoting electric vehicle (EV) adoption. These measures could potentially make Tesla’s cars more affordable for Indian consumers.

 Cutting-Edge Features of Tesla Cars
Tesla has distinguished itself with its advanced technology and stylish designs. Some of the notable features include:

• Blistering Performance: The Model 3 Performance variant boasts 460 horsepower and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds.
• Autopilot & Full Self-Driving: Tesla’s Traffic-Aware Cruise Control adapts the vehicle’s speed to surrounding traffic, while the Full Self-Driving package offers enhanced driver assistance.
• Software Updates Over-the-Air: Tesla owners can receive new features and improvements remotely, without needing to visit a service center.
• Minimalist, Tech-Driven Interiors: The Model 3 comes equipped with a 15.4-inch central touchscreen and an 8-inch rear passenger screen for enhanced controls and entertainment.
• Entertainment & Comfort: Tesla’s infotainment system offers options like karaoke, gaming, and a high-end 17-speaker audio system for a top-tier entertainment experience.

• Enhanced Environmental Controls: Some Tesla models offer tri-zone temperature control, ventilated seats, and HEPA filtration, ensuring superior air quality inside the cabin.
• Futuristic Steering Design: The Model X is equipped with a yoke-style steering wheel, providing an unobstructed view of the road for a unique driving experience.

This development marks a significant step towards the company’s long-awaited initiative to introduce its electric vehicles in India.

Tesla has identified a location for a showroom in the Aerocity region, which is situated close to New Delhi’s international airport, according to two individuals knowledgeable about the negotiations. The Aerocity area features a variety of hotels, retail establishments, and offices belonging to international companies.

In Mumbai, the automaker has opted for a space within the Bandra Kurla Complex, a prominent business and retail center near the city’s airport, as mentioned by the first source. Both showrooms in Delhi and Mumbai are expected to cover approximately 5,000 square feet (464.52 square meters), as reported by Reuters, referencing an anonymous source.

The American automaker has been actively seeking showroom locations in India since late last year, aiming to commence sales in the world’s third-largest automotive market, following a pause in its market entry plans in 2022.

Last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with Elon Musk in the United States, where they engaged in discussions on various topics such as space, mobility, and technology, according to a report by Reuters.

The company has recently advertised job openings for 13 mid-level positions in India, including roles for store managers and customer relationship executives, indicating a proactive approach to recruitment in anticipation of its official launch.

A significant challenge for Tesla has been its ongoing request for India to reduce the nearly 100% import duties on electric vehicles, which has hindered progress. Despite Musk’s persistent advocacy for lower tariffs, local automakers in India have expressed concerns about potential competition disrupting the domestic EV market.

Last week, former US President Donald Trump voiced criticism regarding India’s elevated import tariffs on automobiles, while also expressing a desire to collaborate with Prime Minister Modi to address trade issues and establish an early trade agreement.

While the launch of Tesla’s showroom is on the horizon, the timeline for the commencement of vehicle sales remains uncertain.