Tesla is all set to take its first major step in India with the first company showroom opening tomorrow, i.e., 15 July 2025, in Mumbai. To be established at the Bandra Kurla Complex in the country’ financial capital, the new Tesla experience centre will house the upcoming models from the American EV brand.
A few days ago, the Elon Musk-led electric vehicle manufacturer received official approval from the Regional Transport Office (RTO) to display its vehicles, offer test drives, and commence sales. According to officials, the Andheri RTO formally granted a ‘trade certificate’ to the global EV giant.
Issued under Section 35 of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, the trade certificate permits the legal operation of unregistered vehicles on public roads under defined conditions. Valid for five years, it also authorizes the display and exhibition of vehicles, delivery runs, and use within workshops. Here’s a look at the vehicles expected to be showcased by Tesla when the showroom gets inaugurated.
Tesla Model Y
The Model Y will be the first Tesla to go on sale in India. Patent and trademark for the electric crossover have already been filed in the country. Moreover, the Model Y has been spotted testing on Indian roads on several occasions in recent months. The Model Y is offered globally in two main variants — Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and Long Range All-Wheel Drive (AWD).
The Long Range RWD version delivers an estimated range of 574 km (EPA) and can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in 5.4 seconds. The Long Range AWD model, equipped with dual motors, provides a range of 527 km and achieves 0 to 100 kmph in 4.6 seconds.
A previous Bloomberg report revealed that five made-in-India Tesla Model Y SUVs have already arrived in Mumbai. Official records show that each Model Y is valued at approximately Rs 27.7 lakh (around $31,988). However, due to India’s 70% import tariff on fully assembled electric vehicles priced below $40,000, the import duty on each unit is expected to exceed $56,000 (₹48 lakh), not including additional local taxes and insurance.
Tesla Model 3
The Model Y is expected to be followed by the Model 3, Tesla’s most affordable electric car in its lineup. We expect Tesla to put up a display unit of the Model 3 at its Mumbai showroom when the ribbon gets cut tomorrow. However, it is only expected to go on sale sometime later this year.
The Tesla Model 3 is equipped with a high-efficiency lithium-ion battery and offered in three variants: Standard Range, Long Range, and Performance. Its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and enables a maximum range of up to 315 miles (507 km) on a single charge. The Performance variant accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 162 kmph, delivering an exhilarating yet energy-efficient driving experience.
Currently, the Tesla Model 3 is priced at $29,990 (Rs 25.99 lakh) in the United States. If imported to India with a reduced duty rate of 15 percent, its estimated ex-showroom price would be around Rs 29.79 lakh. However, once local taxes and additional charges are factored in, the final on-road price could reach approximately Rs 40 lakh—placing it in close competition with the BYD Seal, which is offered at a starting price of Rs 41 lakh (ex-showroom).
With inputs from PTI
