Tesla Debuts in Mumbai with First Showroom, Launches Model Y in India

Tesla has officially entered the Indian market by opening its first showroom in Mumbai.  Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), situated in the city center, features a 4,000-square-foot space that signifies the electric vehicle giant’s long-anticipated foray into the Indian market.

The flagship showroom, known as a Tesla Experience Centre, is anticipated to be accompanied by additional outlets in major metropolitan areas such as New Delhi.  The action is part of Tesla’s efforts to investigate new growth markets as demand in its existing areas slows.

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The Mumbai showroom of Tesla can be found at BKC, which is among the city’s most elite commercial areas.  It is reported that the showroom’s rent amounts to Rs 35 lakh each month.  Storefront photos that NDTV secured show it is fully branded with the Tesla logo and features a partially covered white Tesla vehicle in the showroom.

This will mark Tesla’s first experience centre in India, establishing the American EV manufacturer’s initial physical presence in the country.  Although the company owned by Elon Musk has not confirmed plans for a manufacturing plant or assembly facility in India, the opening of a showroom is viewed as a strategic move to assess consumer interest and market potential.

The showroom is currently featuring Tesla’s all-electric SUV, the Model Y.  For the opening, six Model Y SUVs have been brought from Shanghai to Mumbai.  Images circulated on social media depict the last pre-launch adjustments being made, such as the vehicle being brought into the store via a flatbed truck.

Tesla is said to be offering the refreshed Model Y for the Indian market, featuring a dark grey finish, black alloy wheels, and a sleek, coupe-like silhouette.  It will come in two versions: Long Range RWD and Long Range AWD. 

The interior showcases a dual-tone black-and-white cabin with a minimalist aesthetic, featuring a 15.4-inch central touchscreen and technological highlights including wireless charging, USB-C ports, voice commands, internet access, and app-based vehicle entry.

The rear-wheel-drive variant of Tesla’s Model Y is priced at Rs 59.89 lakh, taking into account India’s high import duties on completely built units (CBUs).  At present, India imposes import duties of 70% to 100% on vehicles that are fully imported, which greatly increases their cost for purchasers.

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, has openly criticized high tariffs and has called for reductions in duties to make Tesla vehicles more affordable for Indian consumers.  The Indian government has, however, upheld its position, calling on Tesla to pledge to produce goods locally instead.  Even with the continuing talks, Tesla has not yet verified any intentions to establish a factory in India.