TL; DR
- As per new reports, Tesla is considering importing completely built units from the Berlin plant in the country.
- The job roles in Mumbai and Delhi are reportedly for the showroom locations in BKC and Aerocity, respectively.
- Tesla could source parts worth $1 billion from the country this year, and if the market responds well, that number could only go higher in the future.
Yesterday, we reported how Tesla is hiring for job roles in India, particularly in the cities of Mumbai and Delhi. Today, we have more information to share about Tesla’s foray into the Indian market. While the EV maker has been contemplating selling its cars in the Indian subcontinent for a while, it couldn’t do so due to the lack of capital amid plummeting market share in its key market.
Tesla Will Import Units From Its Berlin Plant
As per new reports, Tesla is considering importing completely built units from the Berlin plant in the country, implying that it intends to pay the basic customs duty (till it explores the opportunity of manufacturing the units locally). The first EV by the company could cost under $25,000 (around Rs. 22 lakhs).
Mumbai And Delhi To Get Tesla’s First Stores
The job roles in Mumbai and Delhi are reportedly for the showroom locations in BKC and Aerocity, respectively. Further, the stores could open sooner than anyone expected, i.e. by April this year. The showrooms will allow for a good connection between the global EV leader and the prospective Indian customers who are willing to pay a premium to get a Tesla. Interestingly, Apple also opened its first official store in BKC.
No Local Manufacturing Plant (For Now), But Local Sourcing Will Bring In FDI
Last year, it was reported that Tesla is considering investing a hefty sum to establish a manufacturing facility in the country (around $3 billion). However, that doesn’t seem to be the case anymore, as it plans to import vehicles from the Berlin plant. Even so, the company has committed to sourcing parts from the country, which could go into the intricate manufacturing process.
In fact, Tesla could source parts worth $1 billion from the country this year, and if the market responds well, that number could only go higher in the future. Last but not least, the Musk-led company expects the Indian government to slash import duties further (in anticipation of reciprocal tariffs from the United States government).
From what we gather, Tesla is spinning the clock on its stores in India, hiring ground staff, including advisors and supervisors, who could assist customers. At the same time, the company is figuring out the components that need to be sourced from the country while trying to convince the government to lower the import duties, as it will result in a healthier profit margin. Tesla could, in a very real way, start its Indian business sooner than we expected it to.
Also Read: New FASTag Rules by NPCI Every Indian Traveler Should Be Aware About
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