Tesla is gearing up to launch a more affordable version of its popular electric SUV, the Model Y. According to recent media reports, Tesla is modifying and upgrading the existing Model Y while significantly reducing its production cost by around 20%.
This move suggests that Tesla is now aiming to enter the affordable EV segment. But the big question remains – will this budget-friendly Model Y be launched in India? Let’s find out.
Will Tesla Model Y’s Affordable Version Launch in India?
Tesla has been planning to enter the Indian market for quite some time. Recently, reports suggested that the company might introduce an affordable electric car priced around ₹21 lakh in India. According to a CNBC-TV18 report, Tesla is considering importing vehicles manufactured at its Berlin Gigafactory to India. If the budget-friendly Model Y is launched globally, there is a possibility that Tesla might bring it to the Indian market as well.
Key Features of the Affordable Tesla Model Y
Although this version of the Model Y is expected to be cheaper, it will still come with impressive features. Tesla has reportedly codenamed this upcoming variant as “E41”, and production is set to begin in China by 2025. Additionally, Tesla plans to manufacture this new model in Europe and North America as well.
As for its potential launch in India, there has been no official confirmation yet.
Expected Price of the New Tesla Model Y
Since the production cost of this new Model Y is estimated to be 20% lower, its price is also expected to be reduced. Media reports suggest that it could be priced between $25,000 and $30,000 (approx. ₹21-₹25 lakh) in international markets.
Estimated Prices of Tesla Model Y (International Market):
| Variant | Estimated Price (USD) | Estimated Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Base Variant | $25,000 | ₹21 lakh |
| Mid Variant | $27,500 | ₹23 lakh |
| Top Variant | $30,000 | ₹25 lakh |
If launched in India, additional import duties and taxes could push the price above ₹30 lakh.
Tesla’s Prospects in India
Tesla has been in discussions with the Indian government for a long time to seek reductions in import duties, aiming to introduce its EVs at an affordable price. Elon Musk himself has expressed interest in launching budget-friendly Tesla models in India. However, no confirmed timeline has been revealed yet.
Tesla’s Future Strategy
Tesla has shifted its focus from launching new car models to upgrading its existing ones. The plan to introduce an improved and more affordable Model Y aligns with this strategy. The company is also heavily investing in self-driving technology.
Will the Budget-Friendly Tesla Model Y Come to India?
As of now, Tesla has not officially announced any plans to launch the affordable Model Y in India. However, continuous discussions with the Indian government suggest that if Tesla gets import duty concessions, it could introduce the Model Y in India. Additionally, if Tesla sets up a manufacturing unit in the country, it could bring a major transformation in India’s electric vehicle market.