The brand’s official website now accepts bookings, with prices ranging from Rs. 59.98 Lakhs to Rs. 67.89 Lakhs, depending on the variant.
Tesla has finally marked a significant milestone by launching its first electric SUV, the Model Y, in India. The official website of the brand now accepts bookings with prices starting at Rs. 59.98 Lakhs and going up to Rs. 67.89 Lakhs, depending on the variant.
The Indian market will now blossom as the Model Y introduces a unique blend of performance, practicality, and world-class features. It’s a mid-size electric SUV built on the Model 3 chassis, which provides long range, high-tech features, and classic interior upgrades.
Two Variants on Offer
The Model Y is available in two variants: Long Range RWD and Rear-wheel Drive. Although the company has not released precise key specifications for India, the Long Range version offers a range of about 622 km on a single charge (WLTP) and can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 5.6 seconds, while the Performance variant provides faster acceleration and a more lively drive.
Both models have dual-motor all-wheel drive, a panoramic glass roof, and Tesla’s trademark 15-inch touchscreen that controls the majority of the vehicle’s functions. The EV also gets quick charging, allowing users to reach up to 241 kilometres of range in 15 minutes using Tesla Superchargers.
Advanced Tech and Safety
Notably, it boasts Tesla’s Autopilot system, which delivers semi-autonomous driving features and also gets an array of safety features like collision avoidance, lane keeping assist, and automated emergency braking. The brand also plans to gradually introduce the Full Self-Driving (FSD) capability in India, albeit this will be offered as an optional update and may become accessible later, depending on regulatory approvals.
Tesla’s Strategy for India
This is Tesla’s first major entry into the Indian EV market after years of speculation, cancellations, and delays. The Model Y will be sold as a completely built unit (CBU), positioning it in the luxury EV segment. However, Tesla is apparently in talks with the Indian government about establishing a local manufacturing facility, which could reduce the cost of the EV in the future. The company has also started developing a local charging network, with plans for Supercharger stations in major cities.
Rivals and Market Positioning
At its current price, the Tesla Model Y will compete against luxury electric SUVs like the BMW iX1, Volvo XC40 Recharge, Mercedes-Benz EQB, and Hyundai Ioniq 5. Despite the higher price, Tesla hopes to entice early adopters in India by leveraging its global brand, software ecosystem, and performance-driven EV experience.
Availability and Booking
Tesla has begun accepting online bookings, with deliveries set to commence in the following months. Customers can personalize their Model Y by choosing the most recent version, colour, and interior finish, as well as placing orders directly on Tesla’s India website.
