Tesla’s much-awaited Model Y has officially entered the Indian market, but early numbers show a mixed start. Since its launch in July 2025, the American EV giant has received 600 bookings for the Model Y. Deliveries are scheduled to begin this month in select cities – Delhi, Mumbai, Gurugram, and Pune.
Tesla Model Y Bookings and Deliveries in India
Despite the global buzz around Tesla, Model Y bookings in India have not met expectations. Out of the 600 reservations, Tesla is expected to deliver only 350–500 units in the first phase.
According to a Bloomberg report, this is well below Tesla’s internal projection of selling out its annual quota of 2,500 units. For context, Tesla sells a similar number of cars in global markets in just four hours.
Why Tesla Model Y Sales Are Struggling in India
The lukewarm response can be attributed to a few key factors:
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High Pricing – The Tesla Model Y price in India starts at Rs 59.89 lakh (ex-showroom). Since the SUV is brought in as a completely built unit (CBU), it attracts steep import tariffs, making it far less competitive.
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Missed Localisation Opportunity – In June 2025, the government introduced the SPMEPCI scheme, allowing EV makers to import models with just 15% duty if they commit to local manufacturing. Tesla has yet to embrace this plan, keeping its prices high.
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Limited Market Size – Data from JATO Dynamics shows that just 2,800 EVs priced between Rs 45 lakh and Rs 70 lakh were sold in India from January to June 2025. Clearly, demand in this price segment remains niche.
Tesla’s Brand Appeal and Market Strategy
While the Tesla brand remains aspirational, its cautious approach in India is impacting consumer sentiment. Unlike other automakers, Tesla has invested very little in local marketing and promotions, which has slowed momentum despite high anticipation.
Still, the company is working on building its ecosystem in India:
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Expanding the Supercharger network in Mumbai and Delhi
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Planning a third Tesla experience centre in South India next year
These steps indicate Tesla is testing the waters before making deeper commitments to the Indian EV market.
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