Tesla has finalised locations for two showrooms in India, marking a significant step toward its long-anticipated entry into the country’s electric vehicle market, according to sources familiar with the matter. The company has secured spaces in New Delhi and Mumbai, moving forward with plans that had been on hold since 2022.
Since late last year, Tesla has been scouting for showroom locations in India, the world’s third-largest automobile market. The renewed push follows a meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Tesla CEO Elon Musk in the United States last week, where they discussed topics including space, mobility, and technology.
For its New Delhi showroom, Tesla has leased space in Aerocity, a commercial hub near the city’s international airport that hosts luxury hotels, retail stores and corporate offices, according to two sources who requested anonymity. In Mumbai, the company has secured a location in the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), a major business and retail district near the airport, one of the sources added. Both showrooms will span approximately 5,000 square feet (464.52 square meters).
While opening dates have not been finalised, Tesla intends to sell imported EVs in India through these showrooms, which will not include service centers, the first source noted. Tesla will directly operate the outlets. The company has also posted job listings this week for 13 mid-level positions in India, including store and customer relationship managers.
Musk has previously criticized India’s steep import tariffs, which can reach around 100% on EVs. Tesla has lobbied for lower duties but has faced resistance from domestic automakers concerned about competition.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump recently highlighted India’s high tariffs on cars, but during discussions with Modi, both leaders agreed to work toward an early trade agreement and resolve tariff-related disputes.