The electric vehicle revolution just got a massive boost in India! On July 15, 2025, Tesla officially opened its first-ever showroom in Mumbai, marking a significant milestone for the Elon Musk-led company in the world’s third-largest automotive market. Located in the upscale Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), the “Tesla Experience Centre” at Maker Maxity Mall is more than just a showroom—it’s a statement of innovation, sustainability, and Tesla’s bold ambitions in India. As someone who’s been following Tesla’s journey, I can’t help but feel the excitement of this moment. Let’s dive into what this launch means, what’s on display, and why it’s a big deal for Indian EV enthusiasts.
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A Prime Location for a Premium Brand
The choice of Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex for Tesla’s first showroom is no accident. BKC is the city’s premier business and retail hub, bustling with corporate offices, luxury stores, and high-end developments. The 4,000-square-foot showroom, situated on the ground floor of Maker Maxity, is designed to attract affluent buyers who are ready to embrace electric mobility. With a minimalist aesthetic featuring a white backdrop and sleek lightboxes, as shared by Chief Architect Neeta Sharada, the space screams Tesla’s signature style—modern, clean, and futuristic.
The showroom’s location near India’s first Apple Store adds to its prestige, positioning Tesla among global tech giants. The lease, reportedly one of the highest for commercial spaces in India at ₹35 lakh per month, reflects the brand’s commitment to making a splash. For Mumbaiites, this is more than just a car showroom—it’s a destination to experience Tesla’s vision of sustainable transport firsthand.
Model Y Takes Center Stage
Tesla’s debut in India is all about the Model Y, the world’s best-selling electric SUV. Five rear-wheel-drive Model Y units, shipped from Tesla’s Shanghai factory, are the stars of the Mumbai showroom. Priced at around ₹61 lakh on-road (with the rear-wheel-drive variant starting at ₹59.89 lakh), these vehicles are a premium offering, reflecting India’s steep 70% import duties on cars under $40,000. A long-range Model Y, valued at ₹39.5 lakh before taxes, is also on display, showcasing Tesla’s cutting-edge features like its massive touchscreen, Autopilot driver-assistance system, and impressive electric range.
While the high price tag might raise eyebrows, it’s no surprise given the import tariffs. Tesla has hinted at introducing a more affordable model, possibly the much-speculated Model 2, priced around ₹21 lakh, to capture a broader market in the future. For now, the Model Y is here to dazzle, offering Indian buyers a taste of Tesla’s tech-packed, eco-friendly driving experience. I can already imagine the buzz as visitors explore these sleek SUVs in person
A Strategic Entry, Not a Full Commitment Yet
Tesla’s Mumbai launch comes after years of anticipation and negotiations with the Indian government. Elon Musk has long eyed India’s fast-growing market but faced hurdles due to high import duties and regulatory challenges. The Indian government’s recent EV policy, offering reduced duties to 15% for companies investing in local manufacturing, was a game-changer. However, Tesla has made it clear that its current focus is on retail, not production. Heavy Industries Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy confirmed last month that Tesla has no plans to set up a factory in India for now, despite earlier talks of a $2–3 billion investment.
The Mumbai showroom, along with a planned outlet in Delhi’s Aerocity, signals Tesla’s cautious yet strategic approach. The company has also leased a service center in Mumbai’s Kurla West and offices in Pune and Bengaluru, showing a long-term commitment. Tesla’s hiring spree, with roles in sales, service, and Autopilot development, further underscores its intent to build a robust presence. It’s exciting to see Tesla laying the groundwork, even if local manufacturing remains a distant dream for now.
What This Means for India’s EV Market
Tesla’s entry is a game-changer for India’s electric vehicle landscape, which currently accounts for just 5% of new car sales, with luxury EVs making up less than 2%. The arrival of a global giant like Tesla could spark greater interest in EVs, especially among premium buyers. Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis called the launch a “statement of innovation and sustainability,” and it’s hard to disagree. The Mumbai showroom isn’t just about selling cars—it’s about showcasing a lifestyle and inspiring a shift toward greener mobility.
However, challenges remain. The high import duties make Tesla’s vehicles pricey, and without local production, affordability is a hurdle. There’s also the question of infrastructure—Tesla has imported Supercharger components, but building a robust charging network in India will take time. Still, the buzz around the Mumbai launch, amplified by Tesla’s teaser post on X, has EV enthusiasts thrilled. As someone who’s been waiting for this moment, I can’t wait to see how Tesla shapes India’s automotive future.
In conclusion, Tesla’s Mumbai showroom is more than a retail space—it’s a bold step into a market brimming with potential. With the Model Y leading the charge and plans for a Delhi showroom on the horizon, Tesla is poised to make waves. Whether you’re an EV fan or just curious, a visit to the BKC Experience Centre is bound to be an electrifying experience!