Tesla’s First Showroom Set to Open in Mumbai’s BKC
Tesla, the leading American electric vehicle manufacturer, is making notable progress in its efforts to establish a foothold in India. The company has confirmed plans to open its inaugural showroom in Mumbai, having secured a lease in the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC). The lease agreement, effective from February 16, 2025, spans five years and features an initial rental cost of USD 446,000 for the first year.
The showroom boasts an impressive area of 4,003 square feet, roughly equivalent to a basketball court. According to the lease terms, the rental rate will increase by 5% annually, reaching an estimated USD 542,000 by the end of the five-year period. Nestled within the Maker Maxity Building in BKC, this showroom is strategically positioned near Mumbai Airport and adjacent to various prestigious offices and retail establishments.
Initially, Tesla plans to introduce a fleet of imported vehicles, which will be transported from Berlin, Germany. After the Mumbai launch, the company aims to expand its presence by unveiling a second showroom in Delhi, potentially located in Aerocity, conveniently close to Indira Gandhi International Airport.
Elon Musk’s meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his recent trip to the United States was likely a significant catalyst for advancing Tesla’s entry into the Indian market.
In a further boost to Tesla’s ambitions, the Indian government is preparing to roll out a new Electric Vehicle (EV) policy designed to lower import duties and lure global automakers to invest in India. This initiative is poised to revolutionize the EV landscape in India, making high-end electric cars more accessible to consumers.
The proposed policy entails reducing the import duty on premium EVs, currently at 110%, to just 15% for vehicles priced over USD 35,000. This substantial tax reduction aims to encourage international manufacturers, including Tesla, to explore opportunities within India’s rapidly evolving EV sector.
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