Tesla Model Y has finally arrived in India. And it’s already turning heads — not just for its sleek looks, but for its massive price tag. Starting at ₹60 lakh (about $69,770), the Model Y will test just how far India’s EV appetite can stretch.
The launch comes as Tesla opens its first showroom in Mumbai. It’s a bold move. India is the world’s third-largest car market, but electric vehicles still make up only about 4% of total sales. Tesla isn’t chasing volume here. It’s chasing premium buyers.
Instead of competing with homegrown players like Tata Motors or Mahindra, Tesla is going head-to-head with German giants — think BMW and Mercedes. That means the Model Y will stay in luxury territory, not mass-market garages.
A Pricey Arrival
Globally, Tesla Model Y sells for less. In the US, it starts at around $44,990. In China, it’s even cheaper — about $36,700. Germany? Around $53,700. But in India, add 70% import duty and taxes, and the price shoots up.
The base Model Y (rear-wheel drive) costs ₹60 lakh. The long-range version goes for ₹68 lakh. On-road in Mumbai, it’s about ₹61 lakh. And that’s before you add Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) option — an extra ₹6 lakh.
Not Fully Autonomous Yet
The FSD system sounds fancy, but it’s not truly autonomous — yet. Drivers still need to stay alert. Tesla says updates will come over-the-air and improve the system with time. But for now, it’s a work in progress.
Mumbai Gets First Peek
On Tuesday, Mumbai became the first Indian city to get a Tesla showroom. The buzz was high. Police were stationed outside. Media crews crowded the entrance. Even Maharashtra’s chief minister showed up.
Inside the sleek, neutral-toned showroom, the Tesla Model Y sat under stylish covers. Only parts of the car were visible through the glass walls. Access was tight. No fans. No crowd. Just quiet luxury.
Target: Premium, Not Popular
Tesla is clearly not trying to win over every Indian driver. This isn’t an EV for the daily commuter. It’s a status symbol, a luxury buy. With limited supply and high cost, Tesla is betting on exclusivity.
And with Musk’s global EV empire facing sales pressure and factory overcapacity, India gives him a new playground — even if it’s a tough one.
For now, the Tesla Model Y is open for booking in Mumbai with a deposit of ₹22,220. Deliveries are expected to begin in the third quarter. Until then, Tesla fans can admire — and maybe start saving.
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