MUMBAI: As Tesla made its grand debut in India with the launch of its first showroom at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Mumbai, political and industry leaders were quick to respond. Among them, Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora extended a warm welcome to the global EV giant but also used the moment to champion India’s homegrown electric vehicle industry, particularly Mahindra Automotive.
Taking to social media platform X, Deora congratulated the Maharashtra government for facilitating Tesla’s entry into the Indian market. “Kudos to Maharashtra Government for bringing Tesla to India,” he wrote, applauding the administration’s efforts to attract global investors.
However, Deora tempered the praise by emphasizing the capabilities of India’s own EV players. “While Tesla remains aspirational, its innovation is slowing. My Made-in-India Mahindra Automotive, with cutting-edge indigenous tech, shows Indian EVs are gearing up to take on global giants,” he added, voicing confidence in the potential of Indian companies to rival international brands.
Deora’s comments came a day after Tesla inaugurated its first Indian showroom, a major milestone as it taps into the world’s third-largest automobile market. The new showroom is expected to showcase Tesla’s popular models, the Model Y and Model 3, with the Model Y likely to be the first car launched for Indian consumers.
Meanwhile, Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra also responded to Tesla’s Indian foray with optimism and sportsmanship. Welcoming Elon Musk’s company, Mahindra noted that Tesla’s arrival would raise the bar for all players in the sector. “One of the world’s largest EV opportunities just got more exciting. Competition drives innovation, and there’s plenty of road ahead. Looking forward to seeing you at the charging station,” Mahindra posted on X.
Tesla’s entry into India comes after prolonged negotiations with the Indian government over import duties, production plans, and local sourcing requirements. With its first showroom now operational, the company signals its intent to build a strong presence in a market that is rapidly shifting toward electric mobility.
As India accelerates its push for clean and sustainable transportation, the EV space is set to witness fierce competition—not just between global players like Tesla, but also with Indian pioneers like Mahindra and Tata Motors, who are fast innovating to meet domestic and global demand.
