In a groundbreaking move, Elon Musk’s Tesla has officially signed a lease deal to establish its first showroom in Mumbai, marking a significant step toward entering the Indian electric vehicle (EV) market. According to registration documents, the US-based EV giant has secured a five-year lease starting February 16, 2025, for a 4,003-square-foot space in the prestigious Maker Maxity building, located in Mumbai’s bustling Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC). This development signals Tesla’s renewed commitment to selling imported cars in India, a plan it had previously shelved last year.
The Mumbai showroom, situated in one of India’s most expensive commercial hubs, comes with an annual rent of approximately $446,000 (₹3.87 crore) for the first year. The lease agreement includes a 5% annual increase, pushing the rent to about $542,000 (₹4.70 crore) by the fifth year. This strategic location near Mumbai’s airport underscores Tesla’s intent to tap into India’s growing demand for sustainable mobility while targeting affluent buyers in a prime business district.
Tesla’s entry into India follows a high-profile meeting between CEO Elon Musk and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the US, sparking speculation about the company’s expansion plans. Reports also suggest that Tesla is eyeing a second showroom in New Delhi’s Aerocity, further solidifying its footprint in the country. With no immediate plans to manufacture locally, Tesla is expected to import models like the Model 3 and Model Y from its Gigafactory in Berlin, potentially tailoring specifications to offer a more affordable price point, possibly around ₹22 lakh ($25,000).
This move is a game-changer for India’s EV landscape. With government incentives boosting adoption and local players like Tata Motors and Mahindra already in the race, Tesla’s arrival could accelerate competition and innovation. The company has also posted 13 job openings in Mumbai and Delhi, hinting at an aggressive rollout strategy.
For Tesla enthusiasts and eco-conscious consumers, the Mumbai showroom opening in 2025 promises a new chapter in India’s automotive future. As Elon Musk steers Tesla into this vibrant market, all eyes are on how the brand will navigate challenges like import tariffs and infrastructure to electrify Indian roads. Stay tuned for updates as Tesla gears up to redefine mobility in India!