Surat-based businessman Lavji Daliya, known as Lavji Badshah, has brought India its first-ever Tesla Cybertruck. Imported from Dubai, this limited-edition Foundation Series model makes Lavji the proud owner of one of the most futuristic vehicles in the world.
Lavji Daliya, a prominent figure in Surat, has earned the title of 'Badshah' through his philanthropic work. A real estate mogul, diamond merchant, and power loom owner, Lavji leads the Gopin Group, a conglomerate that spans across real estate, non-profit work, and investments. His purchase of the Tesla Cybertruck further cements his reputation for being ahead of the curve.
The Cybertruck is more than just a pickup; it’s a revolutionary concept in automotive design and performance. Its 30X cold-rolled stainless steel exoskeleton offers unmatched durability, while the angular, bulletproof exterior makes it stand out from traditional trucks. With a tri-motor setup, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds and can tow an impressive 14,000 lbs.
Despite its heavy-duty specs, it’s designed for the future, offering advanced features like biometric entry and a 17-inch touchscreen. Starting at ₹51 lakh, the Cybertruck offers both radical design and electric efficiency, challenging conventional pickup trucks like the Ford F-150 Lightning.
Also read: Tesla’s Bold Move in India: A High-Stakes Bet on the Future of EVs
While the Cybertruck is a symbol of innovation, its sales numbers tell a different story. Tesla's U.S. sales for Q1 2025 reached around 6,406 units—double the sales from Q1 2024, but still far below expectations. Tesla had hoped to sell 250,000 units annually but managed only 39,000 units in 2024. The steep drop in sales in Q1 2025 reflects a loss of momentum, compounded by manufacturing challenges and rising raw material costs.
Despite the sales struggles, Tesla’s focus on India is growing. The company has been hiring staff in Mumbai and scouting locations for showrooms in New Delhi and Mumbai. Furthermore, reports suggest Tesla might establish a manufacturing plant in Maharashtra. This move is expected to align with India’s push for green energy and electric vehicles.
Also read: Jio & Airtel team up with Musk to bring Starlink to India
Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, has expressed his commitment to India, stating that he plans to visit in 2025 to discuss technology and innovation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His earlier comments emphasize a long-term strategy for the Indian market, confirming Tesla’s intentions to expand its footprint in India.
