Tesla, the world-renowned electric vehicle (EV) giant led by Elon Musk, is finally making a tangible move in India. According to official confirmation, Tesla will inaugurate its first-ever Experience Centre in Mumbai on July 15, 2025, marking a crucial step in its long-awaited India entry.
Source : Tesla Releases First Teaser Ahead Of India Debut On July 15 ; Tesla to officially launch in India with planned showroom opening
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Tesla Experience Centre Mumbai – All You Need to Know
The suspense around Tesla’s India debut is now over. Tesla is all set to launch its first Experience Centre in India at Maker Maxity Mall, BKC, Mumbai. Spread across 4,000 sq. ft., this new Tesla showroom will not only display its iconic electric vehicles but will also host Tesla charging stations within the premises.
What to Expect on July 15, 2025
- Tesla’s 2.5-hour launch event will be held between 10:00 AM and 12:30 PM, followed by the official public opening.
- Tesla India officials are expected to announce booking timelines and official sales rollout.
- While Elon Musk is unlikely to attend, the event marks the formal beginning of Tesla’s sales operations in India.
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What Is a Tesla Experience Centre?
A Tesla Experience Centre is more than just a showroom. It’s a futuristic space where customers can:
- Interact with Tesla vehicles like the Model 3 and Model Y
- Learn about Tesla’s Autopilot, charging infrastructure, and software ecosystem
- Schedule test drives
- Explore Tesla’s energy solutions like Powerwall and solar products (subject to regional availability)
These centres offer a premium brand touchpoint, enabling prospective buyers to fully experience the Tesla ecosystem.
Are Tesla Cars Made in India?
No, the vehicles will be imported as Completely Built Units (CBUs) from Tesla’s Berlin or Shanghai gigafactories. Due to the current import duty structure:
- EVs under $40,000 attract 70% import duty
- EVs over $40,000 attract 100% import duty
So, while the Model 3 starts at $34,990 and the Model Y at $37,490 in the U.S., Indian pricing could land in the range of ₹50–65 lakh, depending on configurations and variants.
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Will Tesla Offer All Features in India?
Yes. Sources confirm that the Indian-spec Tesla cars will be fully loaded with the same features offered in the U.S. and European markets, including Autopilot, OTA updates, and premium interiors. Tesla is expected to introduce both Standard and Long Range variants.
Possible Expansion to Delhi
Reports suggest that a second Experience Centre is being considered for Worldmark Mall, Aerocity, Delhi, though no timeline has been confirmed yet.
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Government Policy & Manufacturing Hopes
The Indian government has:
- Proposed a scheme offering 15% import duty if Tesla invests $500 million in a local manufacturing plant
- Invited Tesla to apply under the EV manufacturing promotion scheme
So far, Tesla hasn’t committed, and this Mumbai launch is seen as a market litmus test. A positive sales response could lead to local manufacturing within 2–3 years.
Competition in India
In the ₹50–65 lakh segment, Tesla will compete with:
- BYD Seal & Sea Lion
- Volvo EX40
- Kia EV6
- Hyundai Ioniq 5
- BMW iX1
- Mini Countryman Electric
- Mercedes-Benz EQA
Q&A on Tesla’s Entry into India
Q1: When and where will Tesla inaugurate its first experience center in India?
A1: Tesla will inaugurate its first experience center in India on July 15th at Maker Max City Mall in BKC, Mumbai.
Q2: What is the size and what will the showroom feature?
A2: The showroom is spread over 4,000 square feet and will showcase Tesla cars along with Tesla chargers.
Q3: Is there any plan for a second Tesla showroom in India?
A3: Yes, there are reports that Tesla may launch a second showroom in World Mark Mall in Aeros City, Delhi, in the future.
Q4: What will happen during the launch event on July 15th?
A4: Tesla officials will announce the timelines for bookings and sales in India, and there will be a 2.5-hour launch event between 10:00 a.m. and noon, after which the showroom will open to the public.
Q5: Which Tesla models are likely to be available in India initially?
A5: The initial offerings are expected to be the Model 3 and Model Y, both fully loaded with features available in US and other markets.
Q6: Will the cars sold in India be manufactured locally?
A6: No, Tesla will import right-hand drive versions from their plants in Berlin or Shanghai.
Q7: How will the import duty affect the price of Tesla cars in India?
A7: With a 70% import duty, the cars could cost between 50 to 60 lakhs in India. For example, a Model 3 priced at $34,990 and a Model Y at $37,490 in the US would be significantly more expensive after import duties.
Q8: Will Tesla offer different versions of these cars?
A8: Yes, Tesla is likely to offer both standard and long-range versions of the Model 3 and Model Y.
Q9: Is Elon Musk expected to be present at the Mumbai showroom launch?
A9: No, sources suggest Elon Musk is unlikely to attend the event.
Q10: Does Tesla have plans to manufacture cars in India?
A10: Currently, Tesla has no immediate plans to manufacture in India but is exploring the possibility, which depends on factors like import duties and trade agreements.
Q11: How could India’s trade policies impact Tesla’s plans?
A11: If India reduces import duties, especially through FTAs with Europe and the US, it could make manufacturing in India more attractive for Tesla.
Q12: What incentives has the Indian government offered to Tesla?
A12: The government invited Tesla to apply for a scheme that involves investing $500 million to set up an electric vehicle manufacturing plant, which could reduce import duties to 15% for five years. However, Tesla has not shown interest in this scheme so far.
Q13: What is the purpose of the Mumbai showroom launch for Tesla?
A13: It serves as a litmus test to gauge market sentiment; if sales are strong, Tesla may expand operations and consider manufacturing in India within 2-3 years.
Q14: Which competitors will Tesla face in the Indian market within the price range of 50 to 65 lakhs?
A14: Tesla will compete with BYD Seal and Sea Lion, Volvo EX40, Kia EV6, Hyundai Ionic, BMW iX1, Mini Countryman Electric, and Mercedes-Benz EQA.
Q15: Where can viewers find more news and updates about Tesla and other business news?
A15: Follow CNBC TV18 on all digital platforms for more updates.
