Tesla to launch India operations in July with China-made EVs

Tesla is poised to enter the Indian market with its first showroom opening in Mumbai by mid-July, followed by another in New Delhi. This move marks the electric vehicle maker’s formal foray into India, the world’s third-largest automobile market, as it looks to tap into new growth opportunities amid declining sales in Europe and China.

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The company has already shipped its initial batch of Model Y rear-wheel drive SUVs from its manufacturing facility in China. The Model Y, currently the best-selling electric car globally, will serve as Tesla’s launch product for Indian customers.

In addition to the vehicles, Tesla has imported Supercharger units, car accessories, spare parts, and branded merchandise from various global facilities including those in the US, China, and the Netherlands. These imports signal the company’s readiness to establish a comprehensive support ecosystem alongside its retail presence.

Tesla’s India entry ends years of delays and negotiations over import duties and manufacturing commitments. The breakthrough follows high-level engagements, including Elon Musk’s meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this year.

The initial imports are expected to be limited, with a few thousand cars set to arrive through a port near Mumbai. While local production isn't part of the immediate plan, Tesla’s phased rollout may eventually include broader model offerings and potential investment in Indian infrastructure depending on market response and policy developments.