India Welcomes Tesla: Model Y SUV Launch Unleashes a Premium EV Wave

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Tesla: Model Y
Tesla: Model Y

Key Points

  • Tesla officially enters India with the Model Y SUV, starting at ₹59.89 lakh ex-showroom making it one of the costliest EVs in the segment due to steep import duties.
  • Deliveries begin in Q3 2025, with bookings open via the Mumbai flagship showroom in Bandra Kurla Complex.
  • India gets two variants: Standard RWD (up to 500 km range) and Long Range RWD (up to 622 km range, WLTP).
  • Packed with safety and convenience: Level-2 ADAS, panoramic glass roof, 15.4″ infotainment, 8″ rear touchscreen, wireless charging, dual-zone climate, and more.
  • Model Y rivals include BMW iX1, Mercedes-Benz EQA, Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and BYD Seal, with Tesla’s price premium reflecting its imported status.
  • Elon Musk’s ambitious robotaxi plans: CyberCab and RoboVan fully autonomous electric vehicles set to disrupt urban mobility in the near future.

Mumbai: After years of anticipation, Tesla has formally entered India, launching its acclaimed Model Y electric SUV and opening its first physical showroom in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex. The Model Y, renowned for its technology and performance, arrives with a hefty price tag but promises unmatched innovation and style for Indian consumers.

Tesla Model Y Charging, Range, and Power

  • Standard RWD: Up to 500 km (WLTP-certified)
  • Long Range RWD: Up to 622 km (WLTP-certified)
  • Both variants feature single-motor, rear-wheel-drive configurations with power outputs near 295 hp.

Price Comparison: India vs. US vs. Global

VariantEx-showroom IndiaUS PriceChina PriceGermany Price
RWD (Standard)₹59,89,000$44,990~¥263,500€45,970
Long Range RWD₹67,89,000$49,990~¥297,900€52,970

Indian Model Y prices are among the highest globally, mainly due to 70%+ import duties on CBUs.

Distinct Exterior & Dimensions

  • Panoramic fixed glass roof
  • Matrix LED headlights, full-length LED taillight bar, flush door handles
  • 19″/20″ alloy wheel choices

Dimensions:

LengthWidthHeightWheelbaseGround ClearanceBoot SpaceWeight
4,790mm1,920mm1,624mm2,890mm170mm854 litres~1,997 kg

Feature-Packed Interiors

  • Black & white premium upholstery
  • 15.4″ main touchscreen + 8″ rear touchscreen
  • Wireless phone charging, rear USB-C ports
  • Power-adjustable, ventilated seats
  • Dual-zone climate, ambient lighting

Level-2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)

  • Forward collision warning
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Lane keep assist & departure warning
  • Traffic sign recognition, high beam assist
  • Smart pilot, speed limit alerts

Full self-driving (FSD) features are available as a ₹6 lakh optional upgrade.

Model Y vs. Premium Electric Rivals

ModelPrice (₹ lakh)Claimed Range (km)
Tesla Model Y59.89–67.89Up to 622
BMW iX166.90440
Mercedes-Benz EQA66560
Kia EV660.97–65.97708
Hyundai Ioniq 546.05708
BYD Seal41–53510–650
Audi Q4 e-Tron60–70520
Tata Harrier EV22–23500

Tesla’s Vision Beyond Cars: Autonomous Mobility Revolution

Tesla CyberCab: The Robotaxi Era Begins

  • Fully self-driving, no steering wheel or pedals
  • Two-seater configuration with spacious, minimalistic interior
  • Target price: ~$30,000 (global), estimated launch in India TBA
  • Designed for ride-hailing networks, remote charging, and ultra-low per-mile costs

RoboVan: Group Autonomous Travel

  • Seats up to 20 occupants, envisioned for shuttles, teams, and cargo
  • No driver controls, fully camera-based AI navigation
  • Spacious, privacy-centric, and futuristic design for multipurpose use
  • Signals Tesla’s aim to redefine urban and group mobility

The Musk Master Plan: Owner-Operated Robo Fleets

Elon Musk’s roadmap includes allowing private Tesla owners to offer their cars as part-time robotaxis earning passive income while the car is not in personal use. Combined with the rollout of autonomous hardware/software and partnerships with companies, this network could transform ride-hailing and car ownership economics globally.

With Model Y’s Indian launch, Tesla has ignited the premium EV race delivering long range, next-gen safety, and advanced tech, albeit at premium prices owing to import duties. As Tesla gears up to introduce fully autonomous products like the CyberCab and RoboVan, India stands on the verge of a seismic shift toward electrified, driverless mobility.

[All figures reflect latest official data and market reports as of July 15, 2025.]

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