MUMBAI: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday extended a warm invitation to Tesla, urging the global electric vehicle (EV) giant to consider setting up its research, development, and manufacturing facilities in the state.
Speaking at the launch of Tesla’s first Experience Centre in India, located at the Bandra Kurla Complex in Mumbai, Fadnavis said, “We hope to see Tesla’s R&D and manufacturing take place in India. I am confident the company will consider this at the right time. Maharashtra would be proud to partner in your journey.”
The Chief Minister described the opening of the Mumbai centre as a strong vote of confidence in the city and the state. “Tesla has chosen the right city and the right state—Mumbai and Maharashtra,” he said.
Highlighting Mumbai’s position as not just India’s financial and entertainment capital, but also a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, Fadnavis added, “Mumbai stands for innovation and sustainability.”
He also emphasized that Tesla is more than just an automaker. “Tesla is about design, innovation, and sustainability—that’s what makes it so admired around the world,” he noted.
Sharing a personal memory, Fadnavis recalled his first experience riding in a Tesla during a U.S. visit in 2015. “At the time, I thought we must have such mobility in India. It’s been nearly a decade, but we are thrilled to finally welcome Tesla here.”
Fadnavis expressed optimism about Tesla’s prospects in India. “There is great excitement among Indian consumers for Tesla. Once you begin deliveries, I’m confident this will become one of your biggest markets.”
He also highlighted Maharashtra’s readiness to support the EV ecosystem, citing the state’s strong electric mobility market and favorable policies. “Maharashtra is a manufacturing hub with some of the best incentives for EV production, charging infrastructure, and vehicle promotion. This launch marks a promising beginning that could reshape the industry.”
Industry sources say Tesla has already imported its first batch of vehicles—likely Model Y rear-wheel-drive SUVs—from its Shanghai facility. Additionally, last month, Tesla India leased 24,565 square feet of warehousing space at Lodha Logistics Park in Mumbai for five years.
In June, Union Heavy Industries Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy stated that while Tesla currently has no plans to manufacture cars in India, the company is keen to expand its presence through showrooms across the country.
