As India accelerates toward its ambitious electric vehicle adoption goals, Tesla is making its mark in the premium segment. In a promising sign for the American EV giant’s foray into the world’s third-largest automotive market, Tesla India delivered over 60 units of its popular Model Y SUV in September 2025. This achievement pushes the brand’s cumulative sales past the 600-unit threshold since its July launch, underscoring early consumer enthusiasm despite logistical hurdles.
A Steady Start Amid Challenges
Tesla officially rolled out the Model Y in India on July 15, 2025, marking the company’s long-awaited entry into a market brimming with potential but fraught with barriers like steep import duties—currently at 70% for fully built units—and a nascent charging infrastructure. Initial deliveries kicked off on September 29, 2025, in key metros including Mumbai and Delhi, with plans to expand to Pune and Gurugram. While 60 units might seem modest compared to Tesla’s global volumes, it’s a commendable feat given the limited supply chain and the vehicle’s status as an imported offering.
The Model Y, Tesla’s versatile mid-size SUV, has quickly captured attention for its blend of performance, technology, and sustainability. Available in rear-wheel-drive and long-range variants, it caters to urban professionals and families seeking a premium EV experience. Pricing starts at Rs. 59.89 lakh for the base RWD model and climbs to Rs. 67.89 lakh for the higher-spec Long Range AWD (ex-showroom), positioning it against rivals like the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV and BMW iX1.Buyers can choose from a palette of exterior shades like Pearl White Multi-Coat, Deep Blue Metallic, and Ultra Red, paired with two interior themes—black and white—for a personalized touch that enhances its luxury appeal.
Under the Hood: Power and Practicality
What sets the Model Y apart in India’s premium EV space is its impressive specs tailored for diverse driving needs. The RWD variant packs a 75 kWh battery, offering an ARAI-certified range of up to 455 km, while the Long Range AWD extends that to 533 km on a single charge. Acceleration is a highlight, with the dual-motor version sprinting from 0-100 kmph in just 5.0 seconds, blending efficiency with thrill.
Inside, the minimalist cabin features a 15-inch central touchscreen for seamless control of navigation, entertainment, and Autopilot features. Safety is bolstered by advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, making it a compelling choice for safety-conscious Indian buyers.
The Bigger Picture: Traction in a Nascent Market
This early success highlights surging interest in premium EVs, fueled by government incentives like reduced GST on EVs and state-level subsidies. Tesla’s strategy of starting with imports allows it to test waters without massive upfront investments, though analysts predict a ramp-up to 350-500 units monthly by the end of 2025 as supply stabilizes.
Challenges remain: High duties inflate prices, limiting accessibility beyond urban elites, and the lack of a dedicated service network could deter hesitant buyers. However, Tesla’s direct-to-consumer model and over-the-air updates promise a frictionless ownership experience.
Looking Ahead: Scaling Up in the World’s EV Hotspot
As Tesla eyes local manufacturing—potentially in Gujarat—to slash costs and boost volumes, the Model Y’s momentum could pave the way for future launches like the Model 3 or Cybertruck. With India’s EV market projected to hit 10 million annual sales by 2030, Tesla’s ability to navigate tariffs, build charging stations, and localize production will be crucial.
For now, these 60 deliveries are more than numbers—they’re a vote of confidence in sustainable mobility. As one of the first Tesla owners in Delhi quipped, “It’s not just a car; it’s a statement.” With rivals like BYD and MG ramping up, the race for India’s EV crown is heating up, and Tesla is off to a electrifying start.
