Tesla India Launch: ₹21 Lakh EV Coming Soon Amid Tariff Concerns
Tesla Set to Launch Affordable ₹21 Lakh EV in India
Tesla is gearing up to enter the Indian market with an affordable electric vehicle (EV) priced at ₹21 lakh ($25,000). According to reports, the EV giant may initially sell models imported from its Berlin GigaFactory before deciding on local manufacturing. Tesla is expected to start selling EVs in India as early as April 2025.
Tesla’s India Strategy: Import First, Manufacture Later?
Tesla had previously postponed its India launch in 2022 due to high import duties and policy restrictions. However, India’s new EV policy has changed the game. The government now offers a 15% import tax (instead of 100%) for automakers that invest at least $500 million and set up a manufacturing plant in India.
Several Indian states have offered land to Tesla for building a factory, but no official decision has been made yet. The company is expected to test the market by selling imported EVs first.
Donald Trump’s Take: “Tesla Can’t Sell in India”
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has criticized Tesla’s India plans, stating that high tariffs make it “impossible” to sell cars in the country. In an interview with Fox News, Trump said:
“Every country takes advantage of us with tariffs… It is practically impossible to sell a car in India. Now, if he [Elon Musk] builds the factory there, that's okay, but it's unfair to us.”
Both Trump and Musk had previously criticized India’s 100% import tax on EVs, which was a major hurdle for Tesla’s entry.
What’s Next? Will Tesla Manufacture in India?
While Tesla has not confirmed local production yet, sources suggest that if its affordable ₹21 lakh EV performs well in India, the company might set up a factory. A Tesla manufacturing plant in India could:
✅ Reduce costs for Indian buyers
✅ Create thousands of jobs
✅ Boost India’s EV adoption and charging infrastructure
Final Thoughts: Tesla’s India Entry is Closer Than Ever!
Tesla’s launch in India could be a game-changer for the EV market. With lower tariffs, strong demand, and government incentives, India might soon witness the arrival of its first Tesla model.