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Quick highlights:
- Tesla India applies for homologation of Model Y and Model 3.
- Model Y offers up to 719 km range, Model 3 up to 584 km.
- India plans to lower EV import duties for automakers committing to local manufacturing.
Tesla is officially taking steps toward its India entry! The EV giant has applied for homologation and certification of two of its models—Model 3 and Model Y—in India, as per reports. This process is crucial before any vehicle can be sold in the country, ensuring it meets local safety and regulatory standards.
Tesla's presence in India has been long anticipated, and with this move, things seem to be progressing. The company has also finalized its first showroom location in Mumbai, a strong indication that it is gearing up for operations. However, the initial batch of Tesla EVs will likely arrive as fully imported units, with local manufacturing remaining a future possibility
What is homologation?
For those unfamiliar with the term, homologation is the process of ensuring a vehicle complies with Indian road safety, emission, and other regulatory norms. In India, EVs priced below $40,000 must be homologated before they can be sold. Since both Model 3 and Model Y fall under this category, they need certification before hitting the market.
Tesla Model Y: long range, updated design
The facelifted Tesla Model Y comes with updated full-width LED light signatures, aerodynamic improvements, and a minimalistic interior featuring a 15.4-inch touchscreen up front and an 8.0-inch screen for rear passengers.
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Variants & Performance:
- RWD Variant: 719 km range, 0-100 km/h in 5.9 sec.
- Long-Range AWD: 662 km range, 0-100 km/h in 4.3 sec.
Tesla Model 3: performance & efficiency
The Model 3, Tesla’s entry-level sedan, is offered in three variants, all with impressive efficiency and performance.
Variants & Performance:
- Long-Range RWD: 584 km range, 0-100 km/h in 4.9 sec.
- Long-Range AWD: 557 km range, 0-100 km/h in 4.2 sec.
- Performance Variant: 510 hp, 0-100 km/h in just 2.9 sec.
Tesla’s India strategy: import first, local manufacturing later?
The Indian government is working on a revised EV policy to attract global automakers like Tesla. This includes a reduction in import duty from 100% to 15%, but only for companies that commit to setting up local manufacturing within a specified timeframe. While Tesla has not confirmed any factory plans yet, this policy could pave the way for a more affordable Made-in-India Tesla in the future.
Tesla’s homologation process is the first of many steps before it can officially launch its cars in India. If all goes well, we might see Tesla’s official India launch by late 2025 or early 2026. With competitors like BYD and luxury EVs from Mercedes, BMW, and Audi already making their mark, Tesla will have to position itself carefully in the Indian market.
