After years of anticipation, Tesla has officially entered the Indian automotive space with the launch of its flagship electric SUV, the Model Y. The company’s first physical presence in the country is now live with a showroom in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), accompanied by a nearby service centre and logistics hub to support early customers.
Model Y Variants in India: Tailored for Premium Buyers
Tesla has launched the Model Y in two configurations, both offering impressive performance and range:
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) — ₹59.89 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Long-Range RWD — ₹67.89 lakh (ex-showroom)
Both models are imported from Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory, reflecting the company’s global manufacturing standards.
Performance Overview: Speed Meets Sustainability
Performance has always been central to Tesla’s brand, and the Model Y continues that tradition:
- Top Speed: 201 kmph
- Acceleration (0–100 kmph):
- RWD: 5.9 seconds
- Long-Range RWD: 5.6 seconds
- Range per Charge:
- RWD: Up to 500 km
- Long-Range RWD: Up to 622 km
The vehicle combines eco-friendliness with thrilling driving dynamics, making it an appealing option for both city and highway driving.
Pricing Gap: Why the Indian Model Y Costs More
While the US base price of the Model Y starts at $37,490 (~₹32.18 lakh), Indian buyers will pay nearly twice that. The key reason? A 70% import duty on completely built units (CBUs). However, prices may come down if Tesla initiates local assembly or production in the country in the future.
Exterior Colors and Interior Themes: Premium with Personalization
Tesla provides multiple customization options, but some come at an additional cost.
Exterior Colour Options:
- Stealth Grey (included in base price)
- Pearl White Multi-Coat
- Diamond Black
- Glacier Blue
- Quick Silver
- Ultra Red
Interior Options:
- All-Black Cabin (standard)
- Black & White Dual-Tone (₹95,000 extra)
Cabin Features: Technology-Rich and Comfort-Driven
The Model Y’s interior is engineered for a seamless user experience:
- 15.4-inch front infotainment touchscreen
- 8-inch second-row touchscreen display
- Heated and ventilated front seats with power adjustability
- Power-folding, heated second-row seats
- Ambient LED lighting
- Aluminium interior accents
- Hands-free power trunk and additional frunk (front trunk)
Tesla’s minimalist approach blends high-tech innovation with comfort.
Autopilot and Self-Driving: Optional and Coming Soon
Though the current Indian version doesn’t include Tesla’s self-driving features, the company plans to roll out the functionality later. Buyers will need to pay ₹6 lakh extra once it becomes available and legally supported in the country.
Flexible Financing Options for Indian Buyers
Tesla offers monthly installment plans for those preferring EMI-based purchases:
- RWD Variant:
- EMI: ₹1,14,098/month
- Downpayment: ₹6,20,314
- Long-Range RWD:
- EMI: ₹1,29,193/month
- Downpayment: ₹7,01,115
These plans make the car more accessible to urban professionals and early EV adopters in India.
Tesla’s Indian Journey Begins: A New Chapter in Luxury EVs
With the launch of the Model Y, Tesla has officially stepped into the Indian market, targeting a premium audience with global standards and futuristic design. Although the pricing is steep due to import taxes, Tesla’s presence signals a turning point in the Indian EV space. As local production, infrastructure, and regulatory support improve, Tesla could become a serious game-changer in India’s electric revolution.
