In this episode, we break down Tesla’s official launch of the Model Y in India, priced at $66,000—over five times the average Indian car price. We examine why Tesla’s pricing strategy immediately raises concerns in one of the world’s most price-sensitive markets, and what the company aims to achieve with limited imports before its planned factory goes live in 2027.
We explore:
– The details of India’s new EV policy that paved the way for Tesla’s entry
– How Tesla’s Model Y compares in price and appeal to local competitors like Tata and BYD
– Why Tesla expects minimal sales in the short term and what the launch really signals
– The challenges around charging infrastructure, financing, and brand recognition in India
– Reactions from Indian automakers and the government’s long-term manufacturing goal
– What Tesla hopes to learn before scaling operations with a local plant
This launch marks the start of Tesla’s most complex market test yet. We unpack the strategy, risks, and what success would look like for Tesla in India.
