• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

Tesla is planning to begin the operation of retail stores in India by April, CNBC-TV18 reported, citing sources familiar with the ongoing development. The new development is being reported just days after Elon Musk-led electric car manufacturer began hiring in India. It has listed 13 job openings on LinkedIn.

To kick-start its retail business, the company is considering importing electric cars from its Berlin plant. Tesla’s initial plans include launching an electric vehicle priced below $25,000 (around Rs 2.2 million) for the Indian market.

According to the report, showroom locations have been identified in the BKC business district in Mumbai and Aerocity in New Delhi.

Tesla is yet to commit to manufacturing electric cars in India, but it plans to significantly increase component sourcing from Indian OEM suppliers. The global EV leader also expects a further reduction in import tariffs, currently 70%, in light of the reciprocal tariffs announced by the Trump administration.

Though in the past Tesla was hesitant to enter the Indian market due to high import duties, the Indian government has reduced customs duties on high-end cars priced above $40,000 from 110% to 70%.

Ministry of Commerce to hold a meeting.

The Commerce Ministry has reportedly called for an inter-ministerial meeting to discuss trade relations with the United States, with tariffs on the automobile sector expected to be a key issue. Tesla is also exploring a place for a plant for assembling cars in Maharashtra for a possible manufacturing presence in India.

Elon Musk is likely to visit India

In addition, As per media reports, Elon Musk is expected to accompany US President Trump during his possible visit to India later this year.

The recent development of Tesla products in India- came after Musk and Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a one-on-one meeting earlier this month during Modi's US visit. During PM's US visit,t the two countries agreed to begin discussions on strengthening bilateral trade.