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Tesla officially entered the Indian market in July 2025, with the launch of its highly popular Model Y. The electric SUV, already a best-seller globally, was unveiled at Tesla’s first Indian showroom located in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC). The event marked a historic step in India’s electric vehicle journey and generated huge excitement among tech-savvy buyers and premium car enthusiasts.
Global Reputation and User Feedback
Across the globe, the Tesla Model Y has earned a reputation for being a high-performance, feature-rich EV. It was the world’s best-selling vehicle in 2023 and 2024, thanks to its spacious cabin, powerful acceleration, and advanced software capabilities. Users in the U.S., Europe, and China especially praised its minimalist interior, Autopilot functionality, and over-the-air software updates. However, it hasn’t been without criticism—issues like inconsistent build quality and limited service support were raised by some buyers abroad.
Early Response in the Indian Market
While Indian deliveries have not yet begun, early buzz and media coverage indicate a strong interest in Tesla. Those who visited the BKC showroom appreciated the Model Y’s modern styling and silent performance. However, concerns remain over charging infrastructure, service network, and whether the pricing aligns with Indian market expectations. Tesla’s direct-to-customer booking model is seen as a bold move in a country still warming up to premium EVs.
Booking and Showroom Information
Currently, Tesla’s vehicles can be booked online via its official India website. A refundable booking amount of ₹22,220 is required, followed by an additional ₹3 lakh payment within seven days. The Mumbai showroom is now operational, and a second is expected soon in New Delhi’s Aerocity. Tesla has also set up a service hub in Kurla (Mumbai) and an engineering office in Pune, signaling its long-term interest in the Indian market.
Price and Delivery Details
The Tesla Model Y is offered in two variants in India. The base Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) version is priced at ₹59.89 lakh ex-showroom, while the Long Range version costs ₹67.89 lakh. With taxes and registration, on-road prices are expected to be ₹61–69 lakh in major cities. Deliveries for the RWD model are set to begin in Q3 2025, and the Long Range variant is expected by Q4 2025. Additional options, such as Full Self-Driving capability (₹6 lakh) and premium paint colors, are also available.
Future Tesla Launches in India
Tesla plans to expand its Indian lineup in the coming years. The Model S, known for its luxury and range, could launch in early 2026, followed by the more affordable Model 3 by the end of 2026. These launches will depend heavily on how the Indian market responds to the Model Y and how soon local manufacturing becomes feasible.
Tesla and the Indian Government
Tesla’s arrival is closely linked to recent meetings between Elon Musk and Indian leaders, including PM Narendra Modi. The Indian government has introduced policies offering lower import duties for EV makers who commit to local production. Maharashtra’s leadership has been particularly proactive, inviting Tesla to establish manufacturing facilities under the “Make in India” initiative. However, Tesla has yet to confirm any factory plans.
The Road Ahead
Tesla’s debut in India with the Model Y is a high-profile entry into a market that’s eager for advanced EV technology. While pricing remains steep due to import duties and infrastructure challenges persist, Tesla’s global appeal and brand strength could set a new standard for premium EV ownership in India. Much now depends on how quickly the brand can localize and support its products for Indian conditions.
