Tesla recent foray into the Indian market has been greeted with surprisingly muted enthusiasm. With only about 600 bookings for its Model Y SUV since mid-July 2025 sales commenced. This is substantially lower than the company’s initial target of 2,500 units for the year. It has triggered debate regarding Tesla’s strategy in the world’s third-largest automobile market.
Tesla: Key Features and Pricing
The first car, Tesla Model Y, comes in two variants: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and Long Range RWD.
- Model Y RWD: 60kWh battery, 500km WLTP range, 0–100 km/h in 5.9 s, 201 km/h top speed.
- Long Range RWD: Bigger battery, 622km range, 0–100 km/h in 5.6 s.
Prices begin at Rs 59.89 lakh for RWD and Rs 67.89 lakh for Long Range RWD (ex-showroom, Delhi). With buyers needing to pay a token of Rs 22,220 and non-refundable Rs 3 lakh within seven working days to book. A self-driving package incurs an additional Rs 6 lakh, pending regulatory approval.
Infrastructure and Service Initiatives
Tesla has inaugurated its first Indian Supercharger station in Mumbai. Another in Delhi, providing V4 Superchargers (250kW DC) at Rs 24/kWh. The country will be supplied with cars shipped in from Tesla’s Shanghai plant. As there are no immediate plans for local production by the company. Primarily due to the 110% tariff charged on fully assembled electric cars.
Also Read: Suzuki e-Vitara: 2,900 EVs Exported to EU!
What’s Next for Tesla India
Shipments of the first 350–500 units will start in September. Future expansion would be based on better demand and regulatory amendments. Future Tesla models like the Model 3, Model S, and Model X are provisionally expected to roll out across 2026.
ELCTRIK Speaks
Tesla’s entry into India is significant for both its international standing and the obstacles it confronts. The company’s model of importing costly premium EVs has thus far sabotaged sales momentum. Impending success will probably hinge on its capacity to localize production or cross government tariffs.
