Elon Musk backs away from making EVs in India as minister says Tesla ‘not interested'
Tesla is no longer expected to manufacture electric vehicles in India despite government incentives, according to the country's heavy industries minister HD Kumaraswamy.
Mr Kumaraswamy said that Tesla has not shown interest in the Modi government's new EV manufacturing scheme, and is instead looking to open two retail showrooms.
The Indian government issued formal guidelines for its EV policy, offering reduced import duties to foreign carmakers committing to invest at least $500m and start local production within three years, a policy initially designed to attract Tesla.
Tesla had participated in early discussions but reportedly did not join later rounds, with previous plans being shelved in 2022 after India insisted on local manufacturing.
Analysts suggest that India's EV market may not be ready for Tesla's premium models, citing low EV sales and cheaper domestic alternatives.
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