'I'm Happy That Tesla Chose Maharashtra,' Says CM Fadnavis At Mumbai Showroom Inauguration
During the event, Chief Minister Fadnavis expressed enthusiasm over Tesla’s choice of Maharashtra as its starting point in India. "I welcome Tesla here in Mumbai
Electric vehicle pioneer Tesla officially made its debut in India on Tuesday with the inauguration of its first Experience Centre at the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai. The ceremonial ribbon-cutting was led by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who warmly welcomed the company’s entry into the Indian automotive landscape.
During the event, Chief Minister Fadnavis expressed enthusiasm over Tesla’s choice of Maharashtra as its starting point in India. "I welcome Tesla here in Mumbai. Tesla has opened an experience centre here, and it is a statement that Tesla has arrived and it's a statement they Tesla has arrived in the right city and right state," he stated.
Fadnavis also revealed Tesla’s upcoming plans for infrastructure in the state, noting the company is in the process of building four major charging stations, as well as setting up logistics and servicing networks.
"It is a matter of great joy for us that Tesla has launched its first experience in India in Mumbai. Tesla is establishing a logistics and servicing system here. Four big charging stations are also being established by them. I am happy that Tesla chose Maharashtra as the state has become a leader in electric mobility. Tesla is launching its Model Y in India. Maharashtra has the most dynamic electric mobility. policy...I believe Maharashtra will be a preferred destination when they decide to do manufacturing in India, he added.
The Chief Minister underscored the global significance of Tesla and what the brand represents beyond automobiles. "Tesla is not just a car or a car company, it is all about design, innovation and sustainability, for which Tesla stands as a testament, and I think that is a one and only reason it is loved globally," he said.
He pointed to the rapidly growing market for electric vehicles in both Maharashtra and across India.
"We have now in India and especially in Maharashtra, a very big and robust market for electric mobility, we are also a manufacturing hub of electric mobility now, but I think Tesla is going to change the entire market," he stressed.
Maharashtra Ready To Support Tesla’s Journey
In his closing remarks, Fadnavis assured Tesla of full support from the state government. "Mumbai and Maharashtra are going to treat Tesla well.... consider us as partners of your (Tesla) journey," he concluded.
Tesla’s Quiet Yet Strategic Approach to India
While Tesla’s entry has generated considerable excitement, the company has remained tight-lipped about long-term plans for manufacturing in India. Union Minister for Heavy Industries H.D. Kumaraswamy had earlier clarified that Tesla’s current focus is limited to retail operations. Previous reports suggested the company was more inclined toward importing vehicles for now.
Despite the lack of manufacturing commitments, Tesla began hiring for its India operations earlier this year, indicating growing momentum. CEO Elon Musk had earlier cited high import tariffs as a major challenge, though India’s revised EV policy—offering reduced duties and other incentives—may pave the way for a more significant investment.
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