Mumbai, July 15
Tesla's first Indian showroom, unveiled in Mumbai on Tuesday, blends sleek minimalism with subtle Indian influences, Chief Architect Neeta Sharada revealed.
The premium electric vehicle brand's flagship space features a white-themed design with lightboxes showcasing Tesla's innovations alongside curated Indian visuals.
Sharada, who led the project, told ANI that the team executed the ambitious design in just 45 days.
"I have been fortunate enough to be part of Tesla's journey in India, with the first one in Mumbai. The showroom has a minimalist look," Sharada said.
"The showroom features a white background with lightboxes displaying Tesla images and some Indian images. We executed the job in 45 days," she added.
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday inaugurated the 'Tesla Experience Centre' in Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Mumbai and welcomed Tesla's arrival to India.
The chief minister said, "I welcome Tesla here in Mumbai. Tesla has opened an experience centre here, and it is a statement that Tesla has arrived and it's a statement they Tesla has arrived in the right city and right state."
"It is a matter of great joy for us that Tesla has launched its first experience in India in Mumbai. Tesla is establishing a logistics and servicing system here. Four big charging stations are also being established by them. I am happy that Tesla chose Maharashtra as the state has become a leader in electric mobility. Tesla is launching its Model Y in India. Maharashtra has the most dynamic electric mobility. policy...I believe Maharashtra will be a preferred destination when they decide to do manufacturing in India," he added.
During the inauguration of the Tesla Experience Centre, Devendra Fadnavis also highlighted the company's global recognition.
"Tesla is not just a car or a car company, it is all about design, innovation and sustainability, for which Tesla stands as a testament, and I think that is a one and only reason it is loved globally," he said.
Earlier reports had suggested that Tesla was keen to import its vehicles into the country and sell them through its showrooms, rather than establishing manufacturing facilities. However, the company has maintained a quiet stance about its detailed operational strategy for India.
In a significant move earlier this year, Tesla began its hiring process in India, indicating the company's preparations for entering the domestic market were gaining pace.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk had previously expressed interest in investing in India, but he had also pointed out that high import duties were a major hurdle. However, India's new EV policy, which was announced recently, offered reduced import duties and additional incentives to attract global EV manufacturers, potentially paving the way for Tesla's entry.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Love how they've blended global aesthetics with Indian touches! But honestly, I'm more concerned about charging infrastructure. 4 stations in Mumbai is a start, but what about other cities? We need nationwide support for EVs to really take off.
ï¸Great to see Maharashtra leading in EV adoption! But Tesla should consider manufacturing here instead of just imports. That would create jobs and make vehicles more affordable. "Make in India" should be the goal, no?
The 45-day execution is impressive! Shows what Indian architects and workers can achieve. But I wonder - will Tesla service centers maintain the same premium experience? After-sales service is where many luxury brands fail in India.
While I appreciate Tesla's entry, our domestic EV companies need equal support. Mahindra, Tata and Ola are doing great work too. Hope the government doesn't give all benefits just to foreign players. #VocalForLocal
Exciting news! But honestly, with our roads and traffic, I'm not sure how enjoyable driving a Tesla would be. Maybe better to focus on public transport EVs first? The showroom does look gorgeous though! ✨
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