'See you at the charging station...': Anand Mahindra welcomes Elon Musk and Tesla to India
This strategic location marks more than just a showroom; it represents Tesla's commitment to testing Indian waters and reshaping consumer expectations in a growing EV market. While production is yet to begin locally, the debut of the Tesla Model Y has created a ripple across the auto industry. Famous icons like Anand Mahindra have welcomed the competition, signalling the start of a new era in India's journey toward sustainable mobility.
Tesla unveiled its first official showroom, named the Tesla Experience Centre, at Maker Maxity Mall, located in Mumbai's bustling BKC. The showroom offers a direct look at Tesla's futuristic technology, clean design, and innovation-driven ethos. Currently, the Tesla Model Y is the primary highlight:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Rs 59.89 lakh (on-road)
Long-Range Rear-Wheel Drive: Rs 67.89 lakh (on-road)
Anand Mahindra welcomes Tesla
's entry into Indian market with open arms
Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra shared his enthusiastic support for Tesla's arrival. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he posted:
'Welcome to India, @elonmusk and @Tesla.
One of the world's largest EV opportunities just got more exciting. Competition drives innovation.' He also revisited a humorous exchange with Elon Musk from 2016, where he had invited Tesla to join India's EV journey rather than leave the field to Mahindra Electric alone. His message: 'The more the merrier—and greener.'
Maharashtra aims to become global EV hub with Tesla's arrival
Maharashtra government threw its weight behind Tesla's entry. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, present at the Experience Centre launch, expressed confidence in the state's capacity to support Tesla's research, development, and manufacturing.
Fadnavis emphasised: Maharashtra's readiness with charging infrastructure and EV policies His 2015 Tesla experience in the US, adding emotional weight to the launch. The government's aim to transform India into a global EV hub. He added: 'Tesla is more than just a car company. It's about design, sustainability, and innovation.'
No 'Made in India' Teslas yet as import duties double car prices
Although Tesla has begun sales and service operations, the cars are currently imported, likely from its Shanghai Gigafactory.
A 24,000 sq. ft. warehouse at Lodha Logistics Park in Mumbai will support storage and spare parts. Tesla has received a trade certificate from Mumbai's Andheri RTO, enabling test drives and demo sales. Union Heavy Industries Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy confirmed Tesla has no manufacturing plans in India—yet.
Despite the excitement, India's import tariffs remain a challenge. Tesla's prices here are almost double compared to those in Europe and the US due to steep customs duties.
Elon Musk has previously:
Asked for a 70% duty cut for EVs under $40,000
Requested a complete waiver for more premium models
However, India's government declined, with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal reiterating that EV policy will stay open and not favour any one automaker. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump criticized potential India-based manufacturing as potentially 'unfair' to American jobs.
Inside
Tesla's Mumbai showroom
: Premium design meets EV innovation
The Mumbai showroom design reflects Tesla's sleek international branding, with:
White walls and minimal layouts
Lightboxes showcasing Tesla tech
Indian touches curated by architect Neeta Sharada
Tesla's message in India is clear: "Experience our cars, feel the future, and drive the change." While Tesla's launch in India has undoubtedly stirred excitement, the absence of a local production facility keeps prices high and scalability limited. But as demand grows and policies evolve, many believe Tesla may soon explore Made-in-India production.
Until then, the EV race is heating up. And as Anand Mahindra aptly said, there's 'plenty of road ahead.'
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