After years of speculation, delays, and shifting expectations, Tesla has finally entered the Indian market. The company launched its first showroom in BKC, Mumbai, alongside the debut of the Tesla Model Y. But is the Model Y the best EV—or the best Tesla—for India? Let’s take a closer look.
The Talking Phase
The Indian Prime Minister and Elon Musk have held several discussions over time. He also faced challenges related to import duties and subsidies. At one point, many believed Tesla wouldn’t enter the Indian automotive market this year. However, Tesla surprised everyone by opening its first showroom in India at BKC, Mumbai, and launching one of its best-selling global models—the Model Y.
Model Y Pricing and Warranty
Tesla has launched the Model Y in India with two variants: Standard Range and Long Range. Tesla has set the price of the Standard Range variant at ₹59.89 lakh and the Long Range variant at ₹67.89 lakh.
The Standard Range model provides a WLTP-certified range of up to 500 km, while the Long Range version extends it to 622 km. Both versions come equipped with a rear-wheel drive motor.
Buyers can opt for Tesla’s Autopilot (self-driving feature) for an additional ₹6 lakh. Colour customisation options cost up to ₹1.85 lakh.
Tesla provides a 4-year or 80,000 km warranty (whichever comes first) for the entire vehicle. The battery and drive unit come with an 8-year or 1,92,000 km warranty, whichever comes first.
Model Y Design and Features
Tesla gave the Model Y a sleek and minimalist design. At the front, the car features an LED light bar and integrated headlamp units. Thanks to the front trunk (frunk), the bonnet remains smooth and uncluttered, enhancing luggage space. On the side, a sloping roofline improves aerodynamic efficiency, which in turn contributes to better range. The rear design includes a connected taillight setup that matches the clean aesthetic.
Tesla equips the Model Y with a 15.4-inch central touchscreen infotainment system and an 8-inch screen for rear passengers. Tesla provides the driver and front passenger with power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated seats, while the rear seats feature power-folding, heating, and two-way adjustment.
Additional features include a power-adjustable steering column, dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, powered front and rear AC vents, and a power rear liftgate. The SUV also gets a panoramic fixed glass roof, 8 exterior cameras, a 9-speaker audio system, and 19-inch Crossflow wheels.
Market Competition
Tesla has priced the Model Y significantly higher in India compared to its international markets—nearly double in some cases—which has sparked criticism. Many potential buyers have expressed disappointment over the pricing strategy.
In the Indian EV segment, the Tesla Model Y competes with the Kia EV6, Volvo EC40, Mercedes-Benz EQA, and BMW iX1. Whether it can hold its ground against these rivals remains to be seen, but its arrival marks a new chapter in India’s premium EV landscape.
