In a major milestone, Tesla launched its first showroom in India on Tuesday at Maker Maxity Mall in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), unveiling the Model Y SUV with a starting price of around ₹60 lakh ($70,000).

The launch marks Tesla’s long-awaited entry into the Indian market. With global sales slowing, the US electric carmaker is eyeing India’s growing EV potential, despite past criticism by CEO Elon Musk over the country’s high import duties.

The event was inaugurated by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who hailed Tesla’s arrival as a “statement” move.

“This is more than just an inauguration — it’s a statement that Tesla has chosen the right city and state,” Fadnavis said.

“Maharashtra is the entrepreneurial capital of India. Mumbai symbolises innovation and sustainability. Tesla isn’t just a car, it’s about design and innovation — and that’s why it’s loved worldwide.”

Fadnavis also expressed hope that Tesla would eventually establish a manufacturing plant and an R&D facility in India.

“In the future, we wish to see R&D and manufacturing done in India, and I am sure at the appropriate stage Tesla will think about it,” he added.

Source - Firstpost