Tesla is set to inaugurate its first Indian showroom in Mumbai on July 15, 2025, marking its official entry into the world's third-largest automobile market. The showroom is located in Mumbai's upscale Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC). This move signifies a major step for the company as it begins its formal operations in the Indian market, potentially boosting sales amid declining numbers in Europe and China.
Showroom Details and Location
The Mumbai showroom, spanning 4,000 sq ft, will showcase Tesla's vehicles and provide a tech experience zone to support its direct-to-customer sales model. After-sales support will be handled through local partners. The showroom is located at Maker Maxity on North Avenue in BKC. Tesla has leased the space for five years at a cost of ₹23.38 crore, making it the most expensive auto showroom lease deal in the country. In addition to the showroom, Tesla has leased a 24,565 sq. ft. warehouse in Kurla, Mumbai, to serve as a dedicated vehicle service center and inventory storage. The company has paid a security deposit of ₹2.25 crore for the warehouse, with a monthly rent of ₹37.5 lakh for the next 5 years.
First Model and Pricing
The Tesla Model Y is expected to be the first model launched in India. These Model Y rear-wheel-drive SUVs are being imported from Tesla's Shanghai factory. While the exact pricing is yet to be revealed, the Model Y is expected to be priced around ₹70 lakh (ex-showroom), targeting premium EV buyers. Due to India's high import duties, the Model Y may attract a sale of more than $56,000, excluding taxes and insurance.
Anticipated Attendance and Future Plans
While Tesla hasn't released a formal invite list, there is speculation that CEO Elon Musk and Prime Minister Narendra Modi may attend the opening event, highlighting the significance of Tesla's arrival in India. Following the Mumbai launch, Tesla plans to expand its operations with a new showroom in New Delhi. There is also buzz that Musk could use the occasion to announce the launch of Starlink, his satellite-based broadband service, in India. Starlink has already secured final regulatory approval from India's National Space Promotion and Authorisation Center (IN-SPACe).
Hiring and Long-Term Strategy
Tesla has been actively recruiting for its India operations, with job postings across roles in sales, customer service, operations, and even Autopilot testing in cities like Mumbai and Delhi. This hiring spree indicates Tesla's long-term commitment to the Indian market. While Tesla is initially focusing on imports, the company may consider local manufacturing in the future, depending on the government's EV-friendly policies.
Tesla's entry into India has been long-awaited, with previous delays due to disagreements over import taxes and local manufacturing requirements. The breakthrough came after a meeting between Elon Musk and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the United States in February 2025.