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    Tesla India Cancels 9-Yr-Old Reservation – New Bookings To Commence Soon?

    New Tesla Model Y Juniper
    While Tesla’s entry into India has been perennially delayed since 2016, recent developments indicate a strong possibility of a launch in 2025
    It was in 2016 that Tesla had started accepting pre bookings for the Model 3 in India. Early adopters from top cities such as Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru were on the radar. However, due to multiple reasons including high import duty, the launch never happened. Tesla is now cancelling and refunding all old bookings including the ones made in 2016. Does this indicate a potential commencement of new bookings? Let’s find out.
    Reservation cancellation email from Tesla
    In an email sent to one of the early reservation holders of the Model 3, Tesla mentions that many of their products have been replaced over the years and new products have also been launched. Among the ones that have been replaced with upgraded versions is the original Model 3 that was introduced in 2017. The sedan has received multiple incremental updates and a major facelift (Highland refresh) in 2023-2024.
    Tesla India Cancel 9-Yr-Old Reservation.
    As per the email, Tesla is offering a refund of the reservation fee. Tesla has mentioned that the brand will reach out in the market again after they have finalized their product offerings in India. This statement can be considered a strong hint of a launch in the near future. Reservation holders have been asked to provide their banking and other details, so that the refund can be processed in a prompt manner.
    Why Tesla’s India launch seems likely in 2025?
    Apart from the cancellation of old reservations for Model 3, there have been various other developments that indicate a potential launch in 2025. For example, Tesla has finalized its first showroom in India at the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai. BKC is one of the most premium commercial spaces in Mumbai. Tesla has leased around 4,000 square feet, with monthly rental at Rs 35 lakh and 5% annual increase. Tesla is also looking to set up similar-sized showrooms in other Indian cities such as Delhi.
    Another strong indicator of Tesla’s entry into India is the initiation of the homologation process for Model 3 and Model Y. Tesla will be importing these cars as CBUs in the initial phase. Based on market response and demand, local assembly or local manufacturing could be considered at a later date. Outside of the United States, Tesla has manufacturing facilities in China and Germany. The CBUs to be shipped to India are likely to be sourced from Tesla’s Gigafactory in Berlin, Germany.
    Tesla and other global EV brands will also benefit from the relaxed EV import policy. Import duty will be reduced from 70–100% earlier to just 15%, applicable on premium EVs. This policy shift will be beneficial for Tesla and other brands that plan to use the CBU route in the initial phase.
    There are also talks about a trade deal between India and the USA. Negotiations are said to be progressing in a positive manner and the trade deal could be announced by the end of this year. This trade deal could further benefit companies like Tesla. More

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    Tesla Model Y Facelift Spied Testing In India Ahead Of Launch

    New Tesla Model Y Facelift (Juniper) Spied In IndiaTesla has accelerated its plans to launch its product portfolio in India. The company has signed a lease deal for its first showroom in Mumbai’s BKC and the company has applied for homologation of Model 3 and Model Y. Recent spy shots from X user Ashish Pol reveal a camouflaged test mule of Tesla Model Y facelift. Let’s take a closer look.
    Tesla Model Y Facelift Spied
    Once known as the land of excessive taxes and tariffs, India is opening up its automotive markets to various non-Chinese brands. Indian Government is reducing taxes on American and European car imports. This makes India a favourable market for foreign brands and Tesla is no different to this strategy.
    New Tesla Model Y Facelift (Juniper) Spied In India
    In a first, we can see Tesla Model Y test mules trundling along the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. It has to be noted that this is the facelifted version of Model Y that debuted earlier this year. This is a good sign from Tesla as it is bringing the latest and greatest and not trying to offload unsold stock of previous generation Model Y.
    Codenamed Juniper, it looks a lot sleeker and more athletic than its predecessor, lending an aesthetic vibe, which could not be said about its predecessor. We can see a split headlight design with sleek connected LED DRLs on top and LED headlights below. Bonnet gets muscular creases, A-Pillars and C-Pillars are body coloured while B pillars are blackened.
    New Tesla Model Y Juniper
    Black is also seen on its roof along with flush door handles. Tesla Model Y’s silhouette is function over form and hence it is not particularly aesthetic to look from the side. It has a coupe roofline effect prioritising low aerodynamic drag coefficient over aesthetic design. At the rear, Model Y facelift gets connected 3D LED tail lights and a sporty bumper.
    Just like the revised Model 3, Tesla Model Y facelift spied in India also gets a minimalist cabin. This means almost no buttons and most of the car’s functions are controlled by the larger 15.4-inch infotainment screen. There’s no instrument cluster for driver, but rear passengers get an 8-inch display that supports arcade games and video streaming. Model Y gets Tesla Autopilot ADAS suite as well.
    New Tesla Model Y Juniper
    Specs & Powertrains
    Where dimensions are concerned, new Tesla Model Y measures 4,790 mm in length, 1,981 mm in width, 1,623 mm in height and has a 168 mm ground clearance. It can seat up to 5 passengers and offers a total of 2,152L worth of cargo capacity when rear seats are folded. Alloy wheel sizes start from 19-inches and go till 20-inches.
    Powering this electric crossover SUV, we have battery packs that can go up to 80 kWh in capacity, promising up to 526 km of range on a single charge. In dual-motor AWD configuration, new Tesla Model Y facelift can sprint to 96.5 km/h in 4.6 seconds. Fast charging is supported and it can accept up to 250 kW DC chargers. Launch might happen in the coming months via CBU route.

    @volklub Tesla testing on Mumbai pune express way pic.twitter.com/2s2FWiyJ2B
    — Ashish Pol (@ashishpol86) April 15, 2025 More

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    Tesla Applies For Homologation Of Model 3 and Model Y in India

    Tesla Model YAfter finalizing its first ever showroom in Mumbai, Tesla has now applied for homologation of two cars – Model Y and Model 3
    Tesla’s plans to enter India have been in the works for at least the last 3-4 years. The subsidiary entity, Tesla India Motors and Energy Private Limited, was registered in Bengaluru in 2021. Some of the Tesla models were spotted on road tests as well in India. However, a commercial launch was continually delayed.
    Tesla Model Y and Model 3 to be homologated
    Things are vastly different in 2025, as Tesla is finally moving towards the launch phase at an accelerated pace. The first showroom has been finalized, hirings are on and now, homologation applications for Model Y and Model 3 have been filed. Both of these have been spotted earlier on road tests in India. Homologation is one of the final steps before launching a new car in India. It applies to all cars, irrespective of whether they are manufactured in India, assembled in India or imported as CBUs.
    Tesla Model 3
    In India, the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) is the centralized agency for conducting homologation of vehicles. A wide variety of tests are performed to ensure that the vehicle meets the quality, safety, performance, emissions and regulatory requirements, as per Indian laws. Once a vehicle passes all the tests, a Type Approval Certificate (TAC) is issued. It is essentially a confirmation that the vehicle is roadworthy and meets all the mandated standards.
    While Tesla was earlier planning to manufacture cars in India, the brand will initially focus on taking the CBU route. It will allow Tesla to get a better understanding of consumer sentiments and demand for its cars in India. Later, as the situation evolves across both domestic and international locations, Tesla can think about local manufacturing in India. As of now, Tesla has manufacturing units in the United States, China and Germany. Tesla is building a new manufacturing plant in Mexico, but completion can take a couple of years.
    Tesla Autopilot
    Import duty reduced for EVs
    Tesla’s fast progress into the Indian market comes at a time when the government has plans to reduce import duties on specific EVs to 15%. Earlier, this tax was around 70% to 110%. It was a key reason that had resulted in delays in Tesla’s entry into India. Reports indicate that Tesla is pushing for an even more lenient tax system, wherein its EVs would attract zero tax. It remains to be seen if such demands will be accepted.
    Tesla could benefit from other policy updates also such as the proposed changes to the domestic value addition (DVA) criteria. The government could also change the minimum value mandated for imported vehicles under the EV manufacturing scheme. Such changes could increase profit margins for Tesla cars sold in India.
    But the red carpet being rolled out for specific EVs comes with some terms and conditions. For example, the lower import duties will be applicable only for OEMs that commit to Make In India and invest at least $500 million (approx. Rs 4,340 crore). Such commitments need to be fulfilled within 3 years. These measures will protect the interests of homegrown carmakers that have invested thousands of crores for building their EV portfolio. More

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    Tesla Sales Decline 45% In Europe – Despite BEV Sales Growing By 37%

    Tesla Model 3One of the leading electric car manufacturers, Tesla, has established a firm presence in many major markets like North America, Europe, UK, China and Japan. The company has been witnessing major setbacks with respect to sales in Europe, EFTA region (Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Iceland) and UK. Let’s take a closer look.
    Tesla Car Sales Decline 45% In Europe
    Tesla used to be a popular electric mobility solutions provider here. However, in recent times, Tesla has been witnessing a major sales decline in this region. The numbers are quite severe as Tesla sales halved YoY with 50.3% drop in Europe and a 45.2% drop in Europe + UK + EFTA regions in January 2025, as opposed to sales performance in January 2024.
    This is a peculiar development as the demand for BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles) is holding strong. In fact, BEV sales in Europe soared by 37% YoY. While electric cars, as a whole, are still popular and booming, European car buyers seem to be distancing themselves from Tesla brand, singularly.
    Tesla Model 3
    The downfall of Tesla sales in Europe is a combination of factors, but controversies revolving around Tesla CEO, Elon Musk, might be a major reason. His infamous salute, his support for Germany’s AfD Party and his political views, his support for a jailed activist in UK are some of the controversies which stirred debates and damaged his public image.
    Repercussions of these activities, launch anticipation of new and updated Tesla Y and inventory shortages are some of the reasons attributed to Tesla’s sales decline in January 2025. As per ACEA, Tesla sold 9,945 units in January 2025, down from 18,161 units from January 2024. In major European nations like France, Tesla sales fell by 63% YoY and in Germany, it was 59.5%.
    Chinese EV sales Soar
    The drop in Tesla sales in Europe, UK and EFTA region is not for lack of demand for EVs or BEVs. BEV sales grew by 37% YoY across Europe, demonstrating that there are no negative sentiments for electric cars. ACEA revealed 1,24,341 electric cars were sold in Europe and 1,66,065 units in Europe + EFTA + UK with a 16.7% market share and 11.9% YoY growth.
    Tesla Model 3
    If we take SAIC Motors’ sales performance in this region in January 2025, the Chinese EV giant sold 22,994 units. New car sales in Europe saw a 2.6% decline YoY overall. The market share of Petrol and Diesel cars (combined) declined from 48.7% to 39.4%, followed by self-charging hybrid vehicles at 34.9%.
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    eCar Import Duty To Reduce From 110% to 15% – Govt to Notify New EV Policy

    Image – Supercars Of IndiaThe Indian government is set to notify its new Electric Vehicle (EV) policy, which aims to lower import duties and attract global players like Tesla. The policy is expected to mandate a minimum turnover of Rs 2,500 crore by the second year and require an investment of Rs 4,150 crore from interested manufacturers.
    Lower Duties to Attract Investment
    The proposed policy will allow companies to set up assembly operations in existing factories but will exclude past investments and land or building costs from the required investment amount. Manufacturers meeting the criteria will qualify for a 15% import duty—a significant reduction from the current 110% tariff, reports Economic Times.
    Past investments will not count
    Companies will have 120 days to apply, with the policy allowing annual imports of up to 8,000 premium EVs (priced above $35,000) at reduced duties. Approved applicants must establish manufacturing facilities within three years and achieve 25% local value addition, which must rise to 50% within five years.
    Progressive Turnover Targets
    The policy also outlines progressive turnover milestones, requiring:
    – Rs 2,500 crore by the second year– Rs 5,000 crore by the fourth year– Rs 7,500 crore by the fifth year
    Approval letters could be issued by July-August, paving the way for imported EVs to enter India soon after. Tesla is widely seen as a key beneficiary of this policy. Reports suggest that Tesla is planning to enter India in April 2025, with an affordable EV priced at Rs 21-22 lakh.
    The company has reportedly chosen Mumbai and Delhi as its initial showroom locations. Tesla Inc. will be shipping a few thousand cars to a port near Mumbai in the coming months, reports Bloomberg. The US automaker plans to begin sales in Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore around the third quarter of 2025.
    Other Automakers Show Interest
    Hyundai and Volkswagen have also expressed interest in the policy during government discussions, but their investment plans remain uncertain. With the government fast-tracking EV adoption, this policy could open doors for global EV players, boost local manufacturing, and make premium EVs more accessible to Indian buyers.
    Source 1, Source 2 More

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    Tesla Begins Hiring in India – Job Listings Go Live on Official Website

    Tesla Model 3 Pre-Facelift : Image For Reference OnlyAfter a prolonged on-off see-saw play, Elon Musk led Tesla Inc. seems to have set a firmer foot in India. The EV giant just commenced hiring for various job roles in India and seems to be a hint at the start of India operations. An official announcement from Tesla regarding India operations is not public yet.
    Tesla Begins Hiring in India
    American EV giant, Tesla Inc. has initiated the hiring process in India for as many as 13 roles. These developments came to light when Tesla posted openings for 13 positions on their LinkedIn page. These job roles posted by Tesla hint at a possible entry into India, which has emerged as a major automotive market in recent times.
    Tesla Model 3 refreshed
    There is less clarity as to what led Tesla towards this step, considering the company’s on-off interests towards Indian market. However, these developments fall in close proximity with the recent meeting of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Tesla CEO Elon Musk during his USA visit.
    Tesla had expressed reservations on multiple occasions owing to rather high import duties set forth by Indian Government. Elon Musk himself has expressed his opinions on India’s high import duties, which doesn’t make it viable for a profitable business. Suggesting a reduction in import duties before making a significant commitment to Indian market.
    Tesla Model 3 Refresh
    However, Indian Government has revised its policies, reducing the import duties of cars priced above USD 40,000 (Rs 34.77 lakh) from 110% to 70%. This revision applies to EV makers that have pledged a local manufacturing presence with an investment of USD 500 million (Rs 4,150 Cr). Thus encouraging Tesla to set up a manufacturing presence in India.
    What are the job openings?
    These job openings that Tesla has put out for India include positions like Inside Sales Advisor, Customer Support Supervisor, Customer Support Specialist, Service Advisor, Order Operations Specialist, Service Manager, Tesla Advisor, Parts Advisor, Business Operations Analyst, Store manager and Service technician.
    Tesla India Job Openings
    The location for these positions can be seen as Mumbai in Maharashtra. More details about Tesla’s India operations are expected to be revealed soon. Tesla Model S and Model X are likely to be the imports, while Model 3 and Model Y are good candidates for local production. More

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    Tesla India EV Market Entry Expected: Right Hand Ahead

    Tesla Model 3 on test in India. Image – Maitrey GogateTesla India EV Market Entry: Tax Incentives Fuelling The WayTesla’s expected entry into the Indian market marks a strategic move, manufacturing right-hand drive cars in Germany for export to India. This decision meets demand for electric vehicles (EVs) in right-hand drive markets. Aiming to expand its global presence, expected Tesla India operations could be a strong foothold in key emerging markets.India’s recent reduction in import taxes on select EVs offers a significant boost to Tesla’s entry. Fulfilling the condition necessitates a minimum $500 million investment and local production within three years. This move aims to attract foreign investment and foster domestic manufacturing in the EV sector.File photo from 2023. Elon Musk and Narendra ModiRoadmap to Tesla: India’s Factory Location OptionsWhile Tesla is allocating RHD cars for India, the specific models remain undisclosed. India’s provision allowing the import of up to 8,000 cars annually at reduced tax rates presents a promising opportunity for Tesla India’s EV Market entry.Selecting a factory location in Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, or Gujarat is a crucial consideration for Tesla. The meticulous site selection process factors in logistical efficiency, skilled labor availability, and proximity to key markets among other decision making factors.Tesla Successful Models – Charging Infrastructure and Dealership ModelIn addition to vehicle production, Tesla prioritises charging infrastructure. By enhancing accessibility and reliability of charging stations, Tesla accelerates transition towards EVs, garnering wider acceptance even from other manufacturers.Tesla operates over 130 stores and galleries globally, spanning 34 countries. These outlets enable direct sales both online and in-person, diverging from traditional dealership models. With minimal marketing budget, Tesla relies on referral programs and word of mouth to bring customers to them. Stores, often in malls, serve as showrooms, educating customers about Tesla’s vehicles and brand. In states with strict dealership laws, Tesla employs mobile shipping-container stores and Airstream trailers to extend its reach, challenging conventional automotive sales practices.There’s Tesla, and There’s BYDGlobally, BYD boasts a diverse product portfolio, selling around 3,024,417 New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) in 2023. BYD India, beginning PV sales in 2021, sold 1,997 units by the end of 2022 and 2,038 units by the end of 2023. Its EV portfolio in India includes the newly launched BYD Seal, BYD ATTO 3, and the All-New e6.The government’s ambitious target of achieving a 30 percent EV market share by 2030 presents significant growth opportunities for manufacturers in India. With its global expertise in EV technology, Tesla stands well-positioned to capitalise on these opportunities. Elon Musk’s upcoming meeting with the Indian Prime Minister may seem ceremonial, as strategic decisions likely precede it. Expectations for this high-profile meeting include announcements of investment and policy discussions regarding Tesla’s expansion plans in India. More

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    Production Of Tesla Cars For India Commenced – Supply Not From China

    Tesla Model 3Ahead of the full fledge manufacturing plans in India, Tesla has commenced production of cars for Indian market to be shipped in from GermanyIn a bid to make a name for itself in the world’s third largest automotive market, Tesla has commenced production of RHD vehicles. Unlike initial speculations suggesting shipments from China, a recent report suggests Tesla intends to ship RHD vehicles to India from its manufacturing facility in Germany.Production Of Tesla Cars For India CommencedWorld’s leading electric car maker, Tesla, is poised to enter the Indian automotive scene and establish a manufacturing presence here. Initially, there were setbacks to Tesla from Indian Government regarding the reduction in taxation for establishing a retail chain with units shipped into the country from China.After a brief pause, Tesla changed its approach towards Indian market. The growing economy and India climbing the ladder to become the world’s third-largest automotive market certainly helped in these regards. One of the nudges could be Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to USA and dialogues exchanged with Tesla founder, Elon Musk.Because India is a market for RHD vehicles, initial speculations suggested an imminent import from Tesla’s Shanghai plant. RHD Tesla cars are primarily manufactured here and are exported to all RHD markets like UK, Japan, Australia and others.File photo from 2023. Elon Musk and Narendra ModiRecent report suggests Tesla has commenced production of RHD vehicles for India in its Berlin plant in Germany. Considering the proximity between Germany and UK, there is a possibility that Berlin-made RHD Tesla cars might be sold in UK, replacing Shanghai-made units. As of now, there are no confirmations regarding which vehicles Tesla has on the cards for Indian markets.Tesla’s Berlin plant currently manufactures Model Y. Considering Indian road conditions and market perception, high-riding Tesla vehicles like Model Y could be a good fit.Company’s roadmapElectric vehicle juggernaut, Tesla, has pledged to establish manufacturing facilities in India. The company is about to finalise the location for the manufacturing facility. A team from Tesla is expected to fly into India and decide between three prospective locations – Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Gujarat.Tesla Model 3 refreshedAhead of that, Tesla is bringing vehicles manufactured in Germany to India via CBU route. These developments surfaced following the revised taxes by Indian Government on certain electric vehicles who’s manufacturers invest a minimum sum of USD 500 million and commence production within the next three years.As per the revised Indian policy, manufacturers can import up to 8,000 units into the country under the revised taxation policy at a lower tax rate. In the grand scheme of things, Tesla intends to increase its reliance on Indian providers for sourcing various components, making India a bigger sourcing hub.Source More