In a long-awaited move, Tesla has made its official foray into the Indian market by unveiling the Model Y, a luxury electric SUV. The company’s first physical footprint is now open in Mumbai’s upscale Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) with a full-fledged showroom, accompanied by a service centre and warehouse facility located a few kilometres away.
India Gets Two Tesla Model Y Variants
The Model Y is being introduced in India in two distinct variants:
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) – ₹59.89 lakh
- Long-Range Rear-Wheel Drive (LR RWD) – ₹67.89 lakh
(Prices are ex-showroom)
Both versions are imported from Tesla’s Gigafactory in Shanghai, China. They offer premium design and international grade performance to Indian EV enthusiasts.
Performance That Rivals Combustion SUVs
The Tesla Model Y doesn’t just look futuristic it drives like it too:
- Top Speed: 201 km/h
- Range Per Charge:
- RWD: Up to 500 km
- Long-Range RWD: Up to 622 km
- 0–100 kmph Acceleration:
- RWD: 5.9 seconds
- Long-Range RWD: 5.6 seconds
These figures put it in direct competition with high-end petrol and diesel SUVs in the market.
Steep Price? Import Duties to Blame
In the US, the Model Y starts at approximately $37,490 (~₹32.18 lakh). However, due to hefty import duties of up to 70%, the Indian pricing is nearly double. Industry watchers believe that the price could become more competitive if Tesla begins local production or assembly in the future.
Colour Options and Interiors: Customization Comes at a Cost
Tesla offers a total of six exterior colour options:
- Included in base price: Stealth Grey
- Paid upgrades:
- Pearl White Multi-Coat
- Diamond Black
- Glacier Blue
- Quick Silver
- Ultra Red
Interior trim options include:
- Standard: All-Black interior
- Optional: Black & White interior (for ₹95,000 extra)
Tesla allows for a good degree of personalization at a price.
Tech-Savvy Interiors with Luxury Touch
Inside, the Model Y continues Tesla’s legacy of combining technology with minimalism:
- Dual Screens:
- Front: 15.4-inch infotainment system
- Rear: 8-inch passenger touchscreen
- Comfort Features:
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Heated, power-foldable second-row seats
- Hands-free power trunk
- Additional front trunk (“frunk”)
- Design Details: Ambient lighting and aluminium accents enhance the premium experience
The interior is futuristic yet functional, aimed at modern urban drivers.
Self-Driving Not Yet Live in India
Tesla’s famous Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) system is not available in India at launch. However, customers will have the option to upgrade to self-driving tech in the future by paying an additional ₹6 lakh, subject to legal and regulatory approval.
Easy Ownership with EMI Options
Tesla has introduced financing plans for both variants:
- RWD:
- EMI: ₹1,14,098/month
- Downpayment: ₹6,20,314
- Long-Range RWD:
- EMI: ₹1,29,193/month
- Downpayment: ₹7,01,115
These flexible payment options aim to make Tesla ownership more accessible to India’s affluent urban buyers.
Conclusion: Tesla Sparks a New Era in Indian EVs
The Model Y’s arrival in India is a game-changing moment for the country’s premium electric vehicle market. With unmatched brand value, performance specs, and cutting-edge technology, Tesla’s presence could significantly influence consumer expectations and accelerate EV adoption. While the price remains on the higher side for now, the potential for local manufacturing holds promise for a broader market reach in the future.
