Tesla Model Y: Elon Musk’s Tesla has officially begun making its mark in India’s growing electric vehicle (EV) market. After launching the Tesla Model Y on 15 July 2025, the company started deliveries by the end of September 2025, completing its first batch of 60 units. While the numbers may appear modest, they signal a strong start for the American EV pioneer in a highly competitive luxury car segment.
Tesla Model Y Entry Into India
- Launch date: 15 July 2025
- Deliveries started: Late September 2025
- Initial deliveries: 60 units
- Bookings so far: Over 600 confirmed orders
Tesla’s entry into India has been one of the most anticipated moments in the country’s EV journey. Despite offering just one model so far — the Model Y SUV — the company has managed to attract substantial interest among tech-savvy and premium car buyers.
Tesla Model Y Pricing and Variants
The Tesla Model Y is available in two configurations:
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) – Offers up to 500 km range (WLTP-certified).
- Long Range RWD – Delivers an impressive 622 km range per charge.
- Price (ex-showroom): ₹59.89 lakh onwards.
Currently, Tesla has begun delivering the RWD version, while the Long Range trim is expected to arrive in the coming months. Both variants are imported as Completely Built Units (CBUs) from Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory in China.
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Tesla Model Y Sales Performance vs Competitors
According to the Vahan registration data, Tesla’s early performance positions it competitively among established European automakers.
Here’s how September 2025 shaped up in the Indian luxury EV market:
- BMW: 307 units (iX and i4 models)
- Mercedes-Benz: 95 units (EQB, EQC)
- Tesla: 60 units (Model Y)
- Volvo: 22 units (XC40 Recharge, C40)
Despite trailing its German rivals, Tesla’s presence is already turning heads — especially considering its limited sales network, no prior local base, and just one available model.
Tesla’s Growing Appeal
Tesla’s early traction in India can be credited to:
- Brand Reputation: Elon Musk’s strong global following and Tesla’s innovation-driven image.
- Technology Edge: Superior software integration, over-the-air updates, and cutting-edge battery management systems.
- Performance & Range: Competitive range figures exceeding most existing EV SUVs in its price bracket.
- Sustainability Factor: Growing public awareness and government incentives for green mobility.
These factors combine to give Tesla a clear identity boost in India’s luxury EV landscape — even with its slow start.
Booking Response and Future Plans
- Bookings since July: Over 600
- Initial sales target: 2,500 units for 2025
- Revised estimate: 350–500 units due to slower-than-expected demand
While Tesla initially planned to utilize its entire annual import quota, the company has now recalibrated expectations. Analysts suggest that limited dealership infrastructure and service availability might have slowed early adoption.
However, Tesla remains optimistic. Deliveries have started in major metros like Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, and Gurugram, with expansion plans for Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai expected next.
What’s Next for Tesla in India?
Industry experts believe Tesla’s measured approach is intentional — focusing on brand establishment before volume sales. In the near future, Tesla could:
- Launch Supercharger stations in major cities.
- Introduce the Long Range Model Y variant.
- Expand into new regions and service centers.
- Possibly bring the affordable Model 3 or a localized version if demand strengthens.
Tesla’s debut also comes at a time when global updates hint at technological upgrades — like the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability recently added to the Model Y in other markets, enabling users to power external devices directly from the car.
Final Verdict
Tesla’s entry into India with the Model Y marks an exciting milestone for the country’s luxury EV market. While initial deliveries of 60 units and 600 bookings may seem small, they represent a strong foundation for a brand just finding its footing in a complex market. The Model Y’s premium design, impressive range, and advanced technology clearly set it apart — but Tesla still faces challenges, including limited service networks, high import costs, and stiff competition from BMW and Mercedes-Benz. If Tesla successfully expands its infrastructure and introduces localized models or lower-priced variants, the Model Y could become the turning point that accelerates India’s shift toward high-performance electric mobility.
