Page 38 - The Indian EYE 080125

BUSINESS & TRADE AUGUST 01, 2025 | The Indian Eye 38

Tesla Rolls into India:

Model Y Debuts in Maharashtra

Amid EV Momentum

OUR BUREAU
Mumbai
esla has officially marked its entry into the
Indian automotive market with the launch
Tof its Model Y, a midsize electric SUV that
has quickly become the brand’s global bestseller.
The company inaugurated its first Tesla Experience
Centre in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC),
signaling a serious commitment to India’s growing
electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem.
The unveiling of the Model Y was accompa-
nied by high-level state endorsements. Maharash-
tra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde took a
ride in the Tesla outside the state assembly build-
ing, Vidhan Bhavan, and called the occasion “a big
deal,” emphasizing that Tesla’s presence reflects
Maharashtra’s appeal as an investment destination.
“Maharashtra has the highest foreign direct
investment (FDI), good infrastructure, and an in-
dustry-friendly environment,” Shinde said. “Inves-
tors are willing to invest in Maharashtra, and Tesla
coming here is a strong message to the world.”
Joining him was Chief Minister Devendra
Fadnavis, who formally inaugurated the Tesla Ex-
perience Centre. Fadnavis hailed Tesla’s arrival as
a pivotal moment not just for Mumbai, but for In-
dia’s electric mobility future. Tesla Senior Regional Director Isabel Fan presents the newly launched Model Y SUV to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra
“Tesla has arrived — and it has arrived in the
right city and the right state,” Fadnavis declared. Fadnavis during the inauguration of India’s first Tesla Experience Centre, in Mumbai recently (ANI Video Grab)
“The launch of Model Y and establishment of
charging and logistics infrastructure proves Tesla’s Maharashtra. Despite the fanfare, Tesla still faces significant
long-term vision for India.” This infrastructure-first approach mirrors Tes- hurdles in India — from high import duties on fully
Tesla’s debut offering in India, the Model Y la’s strategy in other global markets, where ease of built units to price sensitivity among Indian con-
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), comes with impressive access to service and fast charging are seen as crit- sumers. The Model Y, while premium, will likely
specs tailored to India’s urban and intercity needs. ical to adoption. Officials noted that this phased cater to the luxury segment unless localized pro-
It offers a range of up to 500 kilometers on a single rollout sets the stage for Tesla’s eventual manufac- duction brings down prices.
charge and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just turing ambitions in India. However, Tesla’s strategic patience and me-
5.9 seconds. “Maharashtra has the most dynamic electric thodical entry — beginning with experience cen-
With the Supercharge feature, the vehicle can mobility policy in the country,” said Fadnavis. “We tres and infrastructure — suggest that the compa-
gain 238 kilometers of range in about 15 minutes, are confident that when Tesla chooses to manu- ny is playing the long game. Its move could also
addressing one of the key barriers to EV adoption: facture in India, this state will be their preferred prompt competitors to innovate faster, improving
charging time. destination.” EV offerings across segments.
Inside, the Model Y doesn’t compromise on Tesla’s India debut comes at a time when the Industry watchers say the Model Y launch is
comfort or technology. The first-row seats feature Indian government is aggressively pushing for a just the beginning. Tesla is reportedly in talks with
power recline, heating, and ventilation, while the transition to electric mobility. With central and Indian officials about setting up a manufacturing
second row offers power two-way folding and heat- state incentives, FAME-II subsidies, and a rapidly plant, possibly with an eye on exports as well. The
ing. A nine-speaker sound system and dual touch- expanding EV ecosystem, India is positioning itself entry into India — the world’s third-largest car
screens — a 15.4-inch panel in the front and an as both a market and a manufacturing hub for the market — could prove pivotal for Tesla’s long-term
8-inch screen in the rear — provide a futuristic driv- EV industry. growth in Asia.
ing experience that Tesla has become known for. Maharashtra, in particular, has taken a lead For now, Maharashtra is celebrating a win
Tesla isn’t just launching a car — it’s lay- with its state EV policy, offering incentives for — not just for its reputation as an industrial pow-
ing the groundwork for a full-fledged ecosystem. manufacturers, charging infrastructure developers, erhouse, but for being the state that brought the
Alongside the Mumbai showroom, the company and buyers alike. Tesla’s move fits neatly into this world’s most iconic EV brand to Indian roads.
is developing logistics and servicing systems, and framework and is expected to accelerate the adop- “It’s a statement to the world,” said Fadnavis.
establishing four major charging stations across tion of EVs in metro areas like Mumbai and Pune. “Tesla is not just here — it has chosen to start here.”

www.TheIndianEYE.com