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Electric vehicle major Tesla is set to make its formal foray into the Indian market with the launch of its first experience centre at Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai. The event, positioned as the "launch of Tesla in India", will mark the company's official entry into the country. Tesla has already leased warehouse space in Mumbai and shipped its first set of Model Y rear-wheel drive SUVs from China. However, its push into the Indian market comes despite unresolved concerns over import tariffs and the absence of any local manufacturing plans.
Tesla is preparing to make its official entry into India by launching its first experience centre at Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai. The electric vehicle company has circulated select invitations announcing the event as the formal "launch of Tesla in India". Advertisement
According to industry sources, the Austin-based firm has already imported its first batch of vehicles, believed to be Model Y rear-wheel drive SUVs, from its manufacturing facility in China. These imports are likely to be showcased at the new experience centre.
The company, led by billionaire Elon Musk, recently signed a five-year lease for a 24,565 square foot warehousing space in Lodha Logistics Park, Mumbai. This signals the brand's logistical groundwork for distribution and customer engagement in India.
Despite this momentum, the Indian government remains cautious. Union Heavy Industries Minister H D Kumaraswamy had clarified that Tesla has not shown interest in establishing a local manufacturing unit in the country but is keen on setting up retail showrooms.
Tesla's request for a significant import duty concession continues to be a sticking point. The company had sought a 70% reduction in customs duties for electric cars priced below USD 40,000 and a 100% concession for more expensive models. However, India's Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal maintained that the country would not amend its tariff regime to suit any single manufacturer. He asserted that national policies would be crafted to attract a broader spectrum of EV makers globally.
Tesla's entry into the Indian market comes at a time when it is dealing with shrinking sales in Europe and China. Last year, Elon Musk had mentioned that his planned visit to India was postponed due to pressing company obligations.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump had expressed concern that Tesla building a plant in India to bypass tariffs would be unfair to the US. These geopolitical and trade dynamics continue to add complexity to Tesla's global strategy, including its India plans.
As India maintains a policy stance aimed at inclusivity for all global EV players, Tesla's progress will likely hinge on how it aligns its business strategy with the country's broader electric mobility framework.
Source - PTI
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