Tesla has officially launched its much-awaited Model Y electric SUV in India, with prices starting at ₹59.89 lakh (ex-showroom) for the standard rear-wheel-drive (RWD) variant and ₹67.89 lakh for the Long Range RWD version. The historic debut—years in the making—coincides with the opening of Tesla’s first showroom in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex, positioning the American EV giant firmly in the premium luxury segment of the Indian automotive market.
Imported as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), the Model Y’s Indian pricing is roughly 50% higher than in the US, where the same vehicle starts at $44,990 (about ₹38.6 lakh). The elevated cost reflects steep import tariffs—up to 70%—and luxury taxes that significantly impact pricing for international EVs.
Driving Range: Up to 622 km (ARAI claimed) on a single charge for the top variant.
Performance: 0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds (Standard RWD); Long Range variant offers 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds.
Charging: Fast charging capability—267 km added in just 15 minutes using Tesla Supercharger.
Design: Coupe-like silhouette, black alloys, disc brakes on all wheels, and a dual-tone black-and-white interior.
Technology: 15.4-inch central touchscreen for infotainment, additional 8-inch rear display, wireless charging, internet connectivity, advanced driver assistance, and voice controls.
Colors: Six options are available, with premium colors carrying an additional charge up to ₹1.85 lakh.
Full Self-Driving: Offered as a paid option, costing ₹6 lakh extra.
Customers can book the Model Y online with a token amount of ₹22,220, followed by a further payment of ₹3 lakh to confirm their order. Deliveries of the Standard RWD variant are scheduled to begin within this quarter, while deliveries of the Long Range version will commence from October 2025.
Tesla’s EV will primarily compete with luxury SUVs from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Kia, rather than with mass-market Indian EVs from Tata or Mahindra. The Model Y’s premium pricing limits its appeal to affluent urban buyers but signals Tesla’s long-term commitment to India’s growing EV market, which currently represents about 4% of the nation’s total auto sales.
The launch comes amid ongoing debates about India’s EV import policy, with CEO Elon Musk often citing steep duties as a hurdle. The successful rollout of the Model Y could potentially spur discussions on local manufacturing, which might help reduce future prices and widen Tesla’s reach.
