July 15, 2025: Tesla Inc. has officially entered the Indian market, opening its first showroom in the country on Monday in Mumbai’s upscale Bandra Kurla Complex. The 4,000 sq ft showroom, known as the “Tesla Experience Center,” was inaugurated on Tuesday morning by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
“We welcome Tesla to India,” Fadnavis said at the event. “The company has chosen the right state and the right city to begin its journey. We are fully prepared to collaborate and ensure a mutually beneficial relationship.”
Tesla’s entry comes after years of negotiations and speculation regarding the EV maker’s India plans. According to sources, the monthly lease for the Mumbai showroom is pegged at INR 3.5 million (approx. $42,000), underscoring the brand’s high-end positioning. The Mumbai outlet features Tesla’s popular electric SUV, the Model Y, with six units imported from the company’s Shanghai facility ahead of the launch. The available variants include the Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and Long Range All-Wheel Drive (AWD), both in dark grey. Equipped with voice command, wireless charging, and internet connectivity, the cars are being marketed as high-tech and premium. The starting price for the Model Y in India has been set at INR 5.989 million ($71,800). However, high import duties — ranging from 70% to 100% — continue to pose a challenge for Tesla’s pricing strategy in the country. CEO Elon Musk has previously expressed frustration over India’s steep tariffs, calling them a barrier to broader market access.
Tesla’s India debut comes amid a broader government push toward electric mobility and follows recent policy changes aimed at encouraging foreign EV manufacturers. More showrooms are expected in New Delhi and Bengaluru later this year.