Tesla is set to make a historic debut in the Indian automotive market with the first Tesla showroom in India, located in Mumbai’s premium Bandra–Kurla Complex (BKC). According to confirmed lease documents, the retail space leased from February 16, 2025, spans approximately 4,003 sq ft and carries an initial annual rent of ~$446,000, escalating 5% annually (Reuters).
Recent Bloomberg reports further confirm that operations will begin by mid‑July 2025, with Tesla also planning a second dealership in New Delhi around the same time. All signs point to a July rollout of its flagship Model Y SUV, starting from the first Tesla showroom in India.
Model Y to Launch First: Imported from Shanghai
The Model Y—Tesla’s globally best‑selling electric SUV—is being imported directly from its Gigafactory in Shanghai. Initial shipments have landed in Mumbai, including five rear‑wheel‑drive units declared at ₹27.7 lakh (~US $31,988) each. However, with India’s ~70% CBU import tariff, each unit attracted around ₹21 lakh in duties (Economic Times).
This steep angle in taxation means an expected ex‑showroom price north of US $56,000 (approx. ₹49–50 lakh, before insurance and state taxes). While that’s significantly more than U.S. pricing, Tesla is confident that the brand value and innovation will appeal to Indian buyers walking into the first Tesla showroom in India.
Infrastructure First: Superchargers & Warehouses
Tesla isn’t just opening showrooms—it’s setting up a complete ecosystem. The company has imported Supercharger units, spare parts, accessories, and branded merchandise from the U.S., China, and the Netherlands, hinting at a parallel rollout of charging infrastructure alongside the first Tesla showroom in India.
Additionally, Tesla is expanding its logistics base in India with warehouse leases in Karnataka and Gurugram and has begun regional hiring in retail, charging, and public policy roles.
Also Read: Range Rover Sport vs Porsche Cayenne: The Ultimate Luxury SUV Showdown
Policy Pivotal Moment: Musk‑Modi Talks Bear Fruit
The opening of the first Tesla showroom in India comes after years of negotiation delays. The real breakthrough came after a high-profile February 2025 meeting between Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Following this, the Indian government introduced a new EV policy offering reduced import duties for automakers that commit to local manufacturing within three years.
Market Fit: Challenges & Opportunities Ahead
India’s EV market is still developing, with just over 5% of new passenger vehicle sales, and premium electric vehicles make up only around 2%. This makes Tesla’s entry, starting with a ₹50 lakh SUV, a bold move. The first Tesla showroom in India will serve as a litmus test to gauge customer appetite in a price-sensitive yet brand-conscious segment.
Nonetheless, Tesla’s tech, luxury appeal, and charging convenience might offer just the edge it needs among India’s rising urban elites.
Why It Matters: A Turning Point for Indian EVs
- Global EV Benchmark: The first Tesla showroom in India sets a new benchmark for electric vehicle standards.
- Infrastructure Growth: Superchargers arriving with the showroom accelerate India’s EV journey.
- Policy Impact: Encourages other global EV brands to enter the Indian markets.
- Manufacturing Future: If the response is positive, a Tesla factory could follow soon.
Also Read: Mahindra XEV 9e Review 2025: Long‑Range Luxury EV That Delivers… Mostly
Recommended Authoritative Sources
- Reuters – Showroom lease confirmations in Mumbai
- Economic Times – Import details, pricing, and infrastructure
- IndiaTimes – Tesla India entry coverage
- Bloomberg – Policy influence and market projections
FAQs: First Tesla Showroom in India
1. Where is the first Tesla showroom opening in India?
The first Tesla showroom in India is opening in Mumbai, specifically in the upscale Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) area.
2. When will the Tesla showroom open in India?
Tesla is expected to inaugurate its first Tesla showroom in India in mid-July 2025.
3. Which Tesla model will be launched first in India?
The Tesla Model Y will be the first electric vehicle available for Indian customers through the first Tesla showroom in India.
4. Will the Tesla Model Y be manufactured in India?
No. Initially, the Model Y will be imported from Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory in China.
5. What is the expected price of the Tesla Model Y in India?
The Model Y is expected to cost around ₹49–50 lakh (ex-showroom) in India.
6. Why is the Tesla Model Y more expensive in India than in the US?
India imposes high import tariffs (~70%) on fully built imported electric vehicles (CBUs), significantly increasing the price.
7. Is Tesla planning to set up a factory in India?
Yes. Tesla may set up a factory in India within three years, based on India’s new EV policy.
8. Is Tesla setting up EV charging stations in India?
Yes, Tesla has already imported Supercharger components and will build its charging network alongside the first Tesla showroom in India.
9. Will Tesla open more showrooms in India?
Yes. Along with Mumbai, Tesla plans to open a second showroom in New Delhi, with further expansion expected.
10. Can I book a Tesla online in India?
Yes. Bookings will likely open around the July 2025 launch of the first Tesla showroom in India through Tesla’s official website or app.
11. Will Tesla cars qualify for government subsidies in India?
Initially no, since the vehicles are imported. However, future locally manufactured Teslas may qualify for subsidies.
12. How can I service my Tesla car in India?
Tesla is expected to set up authorised service centres and spare parts hubs to ensure after-sales support in India.
