Electric vehicle giant Tesla has officially begun its journey in India, opening its first showroom in the country in Mumbai. The move was warmly welcomed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who praised the company's choice of the city as a "statement" of its commitment to innovation.
Speaking at the launch, Fadnavis said that Mumbai was the "right city" for Tesla's entry. He highlighted that the city, much like the automaker, stands for innovation and sustainability. "This is not just the inauguration of an experience centre," he remarked, noting that Mumbai is not only India's financial hub but also a center for entrepreneurship.
The new showroom is located at the Maker Maxity Mall in the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC). It will function as a customer experience center, allowing potential buyers to see the vehicles and learn about Tesla's technology firsthand. This launch marks a significant step for the Elon Musk-led company as it aims to tap into India's rapidly growing electric vehicle market.
The first model available to Indian customers is the Model Y SUV. However, its price is considerably higher than in other major markets. The vehicle starts at ₹60 lakh (approximately $70,000). This is largely due to India's high import duties, as the cars will be sold as completely built units (CBUs). For comparison, the same model starts at around $44,990 in the United States.
In conclusion, Tesla's arrival is a landmark event for the Indian auto industry. However, the premium pricing strategy, dictated by import policies, will be a critical factor in determining its success in this new and competitive market.
Picture source: Mid-day
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