News/ Launches/ Tesla Arrives in India with the Model Y | Is it too late?

Tesla Arrives in India with the Model Y | Is it too late?

Tesla has now officially entered the Indian electric vehicle market with the launch of its first dealership in Mumbai. The new showroom is located in one of Mumbai’s prime spots — Maker Maxity Mall in Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC).

The Tesla Model Y

Tesla has introduced the Model Y in India with two variants: the standard Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and the Long Range RWD. The standard RWD variant is priced at Rs 59.89 lakh (ex-showroom), while the Long Range version comes in at Rs 67.89 lakh (ex-showroom). In the Indian market, the RWD version is offered with a choice between two battery packs: a 60 kWh unit and a larger 75 kWh pack. Both variants are powered by a single electric motor producing around 295 horsepower. According to Tesla, the 60 kWh version offers a WLTP-certified range of up to 500 km on a single charge, while the Long Range variant claims an impressive 622 km of range.

The Model Y in India will be available in seven exterior colours and two interior trim options. In terms of features, the car comes reasonably well-equipped. Highlights include an extensive 15.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system up front, an 8-inch rear display, power-adjustable front seats and steering column, dual-zone automatic climate control, 19-inch crossflow wheels, a fixed glass roof, and a powered rear liftgate. While the specs and features make it a solid premium EV offering, it remains to be seen whether it meets the expectations of Indian SUV buyers.

Is Tesla Really Ready for India?

In the early 2020s, Indians demonstrated massive enthusiasm for Tesla. But now it’s 2025, and things have changed. Indian EV buyers are spoiled for choice.

From the affordable Tata Punch EV to the robust Mahindra XUV 9E, and even global players like BMW entering the space with offerings around Rs 50 lakh, the competition is tight.

Indian consumers love feature-packed, full-size SUVs. And Tesla? Well, while the Model Y is loaded, it doesn’t exactly scream “big & bold family SUV,” does it?

Conclusion: Tesla’s Time or Too Late?

India is one of the fastest-growing automotive markets in the world, and Tesla is poised to carve out a significant space. But just how big a slice of the pie it can claim remains uncertain.

With competition intensifying and expectations rising, Tesla’s late entry could prove a significant hurdle. Still, it’ll be fascinating to watch how Tesla navigates the uniquely vibrant (and chaotic!) Indian EV scene.

TopGear Magazine July 2025