Tesla to Open India Showrooms in July with China-Made Model Y EVs

Tesla is preparing to begin formal operations in India with the launch of its first showrooms in July 2025, as per Bloomberg reports. The company will open its initial outlet in Mumbai by mid-July, followed by another in New Delhi. This follows years of back-and-forth over import duties and local manufacturing requirements.

First Set of Cars Already Arrived

As per news reports, the first batch of Tesla vehicles has reached India. 5 units of the Model Y rear-wheel drive SUVs have been shipped from Tesla’s factory in China. These are fully built units and are part of Tesla’s initial rollout in the Indian market.

Import Details and Tariffs

According to the import documents review by Bloomberg, Tesla imported Model Y vehicles into India, declaring each at a value of approximately ₹27.7 lakh ($31,988). Due to India's 70% import tariff on fully built electric vehicles priced under $40,000, each Model Y incurred over ₹21 lakh in import duties.

While the Model Y has a US ex-showroom price of $44,990 (which can be reduced to $37,490 after tax credits for US buyers), its expected sale price in India will be over $56,000, not including local taxes and insurance.

Read more: Ola Electric Share Price Hit Record Low After Heavy Selling and Weak Q4 Results!

Warehousing 

Tesla has started leasing warehouse space in Karnataka and is expanding logistics support in Gurugram. The company has also imported Supercharger hardware, spare parts, accessories, and merchandise from the US, China, and the Netherlands.

No Country Head Yet, Hiring Underway

The company has not yet appointed a new head for its India operations following the exit of Prashanth Menon. However, hiring has begun across departments, including retail, policy, and charging infrastructure. The Mumbai and Delhi showrooms are being set up in premium commercial zones. Tesla executives from outside India are visiting the sites regularly to oversee progress.

Conclusion

Tesla’s showrooms are expected to go live starting mid-July. The company is beginning with limited imports of the Model Y while building its physical and operational presence across major cities.

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