Latest news with #TeslaExperienceCentre
Mint
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Mint
Tesla test drive: Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde gets behind the wheel of EV outside state assembly
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde was seen taking a test drive in a Tesla outside the state assembly, just a day after the car's launch. The event comes just after the US-based electric vehicle manufacturer's long-awaited debut in India, marked by the opening of the first Tesla showroom in Mumbai. Tesla has officially commenced operations in India with the inauguration of its first showroom, the 'Tesla Experience Centre', at Mumbai's prominent Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) on Tuesday. The company has launched its premium SUV, the Model Y, with prices starting around ₹ 61 lakh (on-road). The Elon Musk-owned brand also announced plans to set up four charging stations in the Mumbai Metropolitan region, including locations in Lower Parel, BKC, Thane and Navi Mumbai, completely equipped with superchargers and destination chargers, CNBC reported. The deputy chief minister, who was in a white Tesla, spoke to the media after the ride, stating, 'It is a big deal that Tesla has opened its showroom in Mumbai. Maharashtra has the highest foreign direct investment.' He also added, 'The state has good infrastructure, and investors are willing to invest here because Maharashtra has become an industry-friendly state.'ANI reported. The launch event of Tesla at the BKC showroom was also attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who welcomed Tesla by describing its arrival as 'right city and right state.' Tesla's entry into the Indian market has been a subject of speculation and negotiation for several years, involving discussions on import duties and potential local manufacturing. Fadnavis also expressed optimism about the EV's potential sales, stating, "People in India are eagerly waiting for Tesla. I am sure you will find one of your best markets here once you start deliveries. " Bookings for the Tesla Model Y are now open, and deliveries are expected to commence as early as next month, Mint reported earlier.
NDTV
6 days ago
- Automotive
- NDTV
Watch: Eknath Shinde Drives Tesla Outside Vidhan Bhavan In Mumbai
Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, took a test drive of a Tesla outside the Vidhan Bhavan in Mumbai, a day after the brand launched its first showroom in India. In a video, Mr Shinde can be seen driving a white Tesla through the crowd of guards and journalists. Slow and steady, he rotates the steering wheel and enjoys the test ride. Mr Shinde went live on Musk's X (formerly Twitter) during the experience. "Visit to Tesla's first experience center in India," he wrote. ◻️LIVE📍मुंबई 🗓️ 16-07-2025 📹 टेस्लाच्या भारतातील पहिल्या एक्सपिरियन्स सेंटरला भेट - लाईव्ह — Eknath Shinde - एकनाथ शिंदे (@mieknathshinde) July 16, 2025 Tesla made an official entry into the Indian market on Tuesday by opening its first showroom called 'Tesla Experience Centre' in Mumbai's Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC). The 4,000-square-foot space marks the beginning of the electric vehicle giant's long-awaited entry into the Indian market. Tesla is expected to open more outlets in major metros, including Delhi. The Mumbai showroom currently showcases the Model Y, Tesla's all-electric SUV, which will cost upwards of Rs 60 lakh in India. For the Indian market, Tesla is reportedly offering the refreshed Model Y, finished in dark grey with black alloy wheels and a sleek, coupe-like silhouette. It will be available in two variants: Long Range RWD and Long Range AWD. Inside, it features a dual-tone black and white cabin with a minimalist design, a 15.4-inch central touchscreen and tech highlights such as wireless charging, USB-C ports, voice commands, internet connectivity and app-based vehicle access.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
If Centre did not debate customs duty, Tesla showroom would have opened in 2021: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray on Tuesday claimed that if the Centre had not debated on customs duties, the Tesla showroom in Mumbai would have opened in 2021. Speaking to reporters, Thackeray said, "It's a good thing that an electric car showroom is being opened. If the central government had not debated the customs duty, then the showroom would have opened in 2021 only." He added that it is due to the policy for electric vehicles (EVs) made by the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government in 2021 that the EV companies are coming to Maharashtra. "The EV policy that we made gives EVs major support in Maharashtra, and due to this, many companies are coming here," Aaditya Thackeray said. The MVA government passed an EV policy in 2021, which was replaced by the Devendra Fadnavis government in 2025. Earlier today, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the 'Tesla Experience Centre in Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Mumbai and welcomed Tesla's arrival to India. The Chief Minister said, "I welcome Tesla here in Mumbai. Tesla has opened an experience centre here, and it is a statement that Tesla has arrived and it's a statement they Tesla has arrived in the right city and right state." "It is a matter of great joy for us that Tesla has launched its first experience in India in Mumbai. Tesla is establishing a logistics and servicing system here. Four big charging stations are also being established by them. I am happy that Tesla chose Maharashtra as the state has become a leader in electric mobility. Tesla is launching its Model Y in India. Maharashtra has the most dynamic electric mobility policy. I believe Maharashtra will be a preferred destination when they decide to do manufacturing in India," he added. During the inauguration of the Tesla Experience Centre, Devendra Fadnavis also highlighted the company's global recognition. "Tesla is not just a car or a car company, it is all about design, innovation and sustainability, for which Tesla stands as a testament, and I think that is a one and only reason it is loved globally," he said. The Chief Minister also mentioned the rising demand for electric Mobility in Maharashtra and India. He noted, "We have now in India and especially in Maharashtra, a very big and robust market for electric mobility, we are also a manufacturing hub of electric mobility now, but I think Tesla is going to change the entire market." Towards the end of his speech, the CM assured that "Mumbai and Maharashtra are going to treat Tesla well.... consider us as partners of your (Tesla) journey."
Time of India
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
Tesla is finally in India and that's all that really matters
The Roman calendar would term the Tesla launch date in India the Ides of July which is the 15th day of the month. The more popular reference point for historians is, of course, the Ides of March, the day Julius Caesar was assassinated way back in 44 BC. The Tesla event clearly cannot be termed historic but the date will be remembered for some days to come simply because it finally marked the advent of a long awaited brand in India. For years, its CEO had constantly hinted at an entry into this market while everyone else salivated in eager anticipation. In those days, one little negative note by way of a tweet on India's high import duties would lead to state governments pleading with Elon Musk to consider setting up a plant in their respective regions. At the level of the Centre too, an electric vehicle policy was also formulated keeping Tesla in mind. The only hitch was that its CEO was still not biting the bait till it became formally known that Tesla would not manufacture cars in India. Then came the dramatic announcement of the July 15 inaugural of the new showroom in Mumbai and all hell broke loose with everyone jostling for an invitation. For the entry of such a big brand, the planning was shambolic at least as far as the media planning was concerned. Disruptions galore The venue was witness to chaos as journalists and cameramen struggled to enter the Tesla Experience Centre at Bandra-Kurla Complex, or BKC as it is more fashionably known, which has now taken over from the once famous Nariman Point as the city's go-to business address. The constant rains led to massive traffic jams and delays but this did not deter those who were keen to be part of this big day when Tesla would unveil its Model Y. Never mind that these were fully built cars imported from China, a country at loggerheads with India even while remaining its largest trading partner. Slapping massive import levies of over 70 per cent means that the Model Y will literally cost a bomb though that will hardly matter to a section of celebrities and high net worth individuals who remain smitten by the brand. This was more than evident at the BKC event when Tesla dominated the social media space when two other automakers, Kia and VinFast, also had significant announcements to make. Come rain, traffic jams or crowd mismanagement, the Ides of July were finally about Tesla. Nothing really mattered by the end of the day. The company representatives at the venue remained tightlipped on specific plans going forward except to make known that charging stations would also spread to Lower Parel, Thane and Navi Mumbai beyond BKC. Also Read: Tesla India launches Model Y at ₹61.07 lakh; full self-driving feature to roll out soon Spreading its wings The next big footprint would be Delhi and neighbouring Gurugram with a similar model of a single experience centre and three more locations housing charging stations. It is only logical to assume that Tesla will eventually expand its presence to Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune and Chennai as part of the India growth plan. Will kits continue to be imported from China? If the US and India agree to slash import duties on automobiles in their new trade policy, will this then prompt Musk to ship cars out of his home country instead? Likewise, if the proposed FTA between India and the EU sees a slash in import duty for cars, Tesla may look at despatching them from its Berlin facility. Musk has of course made a detour to politics even while he had a public falling out with US President, Donald Trump. Right now, there is little love lost between the two and this has led to speculation that the US-India trade pact may not have too much leeway for Tesla on the import duties front. But then, Ford is also working on an India comeback plan and Trump may be inclined to support the company while perhaps urging Harley-Davidson to have another shot in this part of the world. The bigger question is if Tesla will succeed in India with its limited volumes. There is no question that Musk is almost revered in this country as the man who made electric vehicles a fashionable word. Indians are also comfortable with American brands and the country still remains a huge draw for students and professionals. Beyond just a Tesla, there is greater familiarity with brands such as McDonald's and KFC or American comic superheroes like Batman, Superman and Spiderman. Also Read: Tesla is finally here. Will India be able to power it? Price does matter Yet, Indian buyers are equally concerned about what they perceive as the value-for-money proposition. The Model Y does not come in cheap and is way more expensive than what is now available from the stables of Tatas, Mahindras, JSW MG or Hyundai. What Tesla offers in their view is perhaps a greater pride of ownership given its allure as a brand even while it has been losing ground to Chinese brands such as BYD. In Europe, Tesla sales have been in free-fall mode for many months now and Musk's own popularity has taken a nosedive since the time he moved into politics. India has not encountered any such adverse reactions and both Tesla and Musk remain iconic brands. BYD is one of the few Chinese players present in the country but, with severe curtailments on investment, has not made a big dent in this market. This will be good news to Tesla since China has proved to be a huge adversary in the electric vehicle arena. The country's troubled relationship with India has not helped its cause in allowing its automakers to set up base here. Those like SAIC which operate here using MG as its face have already made known that they are looking at a complete exit. Till India and China bury the hatchet, there is no threat of Chinese EV brands flooding the market and ruling the roost. The arrival of Tesla is big news for India since it has been waiting for this big day for years now. It is of little consequence that the numbers sold will be limited and not pose any threat to existing players. The presence of this American brand by itself will be a reason to feel chuffed about.
Time of India
7 days ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
'See you at the charging station...': Anand Mahindra welcomes Elon Musk and Tesla to India
Tesla has officially entered the market with the opening of its first Experience Centre in Mumbai's upscale Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in a landmark move for India's electric vehicle (EV) landscape. This strategic location marks more than just a showroom; it represents Tesla's commitment to testing Indian waters and reshaping consumer expectations in a growing EV market. While production is yet to begin locally, the debut of the Tesla Model Y has created a ripple across the auto industry. Famous icons like Anand Mahindra have welcomed the competition, signalling the start of a new era in India's journey toward sustainable mobility. Tesla unveiled its first official showroom, named the Tesla Experience Centre, at Maker Maxity Mall, located in Mumbai's bustling BKC. The showroom offers a direct look at Tesla's futuristic technology, clean design, and innovation-driven ethos. Currently, the Tesla Model Y is the primary highlight: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Rs 59.89 lakh (on-road) Long-Range Rear-Wheel Drive: Rs 67.89 lakh (on-road) Anand Mahindra welcomes Tesla 's entry into Indian market with open arms Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra shared his enthusiastic support for Tesla's arrival. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he posted: 'Welcome to India, @elonmusk and @Tesla. One of the world's largest EV opportunities just got more exciting. Competition drives innovation.' He also revisited a humorous exchange with Elon Musk from 2016, where he had invited Tesla to join India's EV journey rather than leave the field to Mahindra Electric alone. His message: 'The more the merrier—and greener.' Maharashtra aims to become global EV hub with Tesla's arrival Maharashtra government threw its weight behind Tesla's entry. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, present at the Experience Centre launch, expressed confidence in the state's capacity to support Tesla's research, development, and manufacturing. Fadnavis emphasised: Maharashtra's readiness with charging infrastructure and EV policies His 2015 Tesla experience in the US, adding emotional weight to the launch. The government's aim to transform India into a global EV hub. He added: 'Tesla is more than just a car company. It's about design, sustainability, and innovation.' No 'Made in India' Teslas yet as import duties double car prices Although Tesla has begun sales and service operations, the cars are currently imported, likely from its Shanghai Gigafactory. A 24,000 sq. ft. warehouse at Lodha Logistics Park in Mumbai will support storage and spare parts. Tesla has received a trade certificate from Mumbai's Andheri RTO, enabling test drives and demo sales. Union Heavy Industries Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy confirmed Tesla has no manufacturing plans in India—yet. Despite the excitement, India's import tariffs remain a challenge. Tesla's prices here are almost double compared to those in Europe and the US due to steep customs duties. Elon Musk has previously: Asked for a 70% duty cut for EVs under $40,000 Requested a complete waiver for more premium models However, India's government declined, with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal reiterating that EV policy will stay open and not favour any one automaker. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump criticized potential India-based manufacturing as potentially 'unfair' to American jobs. Inside Tesla's Mumbai showroom : Premium design meets EV innovation The Mumbai showroom design reflects Tesla's sleek international branding, with: White walls and minimal layouts Lightboxes showcasing Tesla tech Indian touches curated by architect Neeta Sharada Tesla's message in India is clear: "Experience our cars, feel the future, and drive the change." While Tesla's launch in India has undoubtedly stirred excitement, the absence of a local production facility keeps prices high and scalability limited. But as demand grows and policies evolve, many believe Tesla may soon explore Made-in-India production. Until then, the EV race is heating up. And as Anand Mahindra aptly said, there's 'plenty of road ahead.' Also Read | Simpsons prediction of Labubu doll goes viral: Video sparks fear about creepy toy's dark origins
