Tesla India Starts Strong With 600 Orders, Cars to Ship from Shanghai

Tesla’s entry into the Indian market has created a wave of curiosity among buyers. Since its official debut in July 2025, the American electric car brand has managed to gather more than 600 bookings across the country. While this is a good start for a premium electric carmaker, reports suggest that the numbers are a bit lower than what the company had expected during launch.

First Batch Of Cars To Arrive In September

The first set of Tesla vehicles for Indian buyers is expected to reach the country by early September. According to sources this batch could consist of around 350 to 500 units which will be delivered to customers who have already confirmed their bookings. These cars are being shipped from Tesla’s manufacturing hub in Shanghai, China and will arrive through the Completely Built Up import route.

This method of import means that the cars will come fully built from overseas factories rather than being assembled locally. While this ensures faster availability it also adds to the overall cost due to high import duties in India

Focus On Tesla Model Y

For the Indian market, Tesla has decided to begin with a single product offering the Model Y electric SUV. This SUV has been a global bestseller for the brand and now becomes the face of Tesla’s India operations. At present customers have two choices:

• Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)– priced at Rs 59.89 lakh (ex showroom)
• Model Y Long Range RWD– priced at Rs 67.89 lakh (ex showroom)

Both versions promise modern design, long driving range, and advanced safety systems. The Model Y is especially popular among families because of its spacious interiors SUV stance and smooth electric performance.

Early Sales And Customer Response

Although more than 600 bookings have been confirmed since launch, market insiders point out that Tesla had expected stronger numbers in the initial phase. Industry experts believe this may be due to the premium pricing which puts the Model Y in competition with luxury car brands already present in India.

Still the response is considered encouraging because electric vehicles are slowly gaining traction in the Indian market. Rising fuel costs growing charging infrastructure and government support for EV adoption are helping premium electric cars find their place among urban buyers.

Showroom Network In India

Tesla has also begun building its retail presence in India. The first showroom was launched in Mumbai on the day of its market debut, followed by a second dealership in Delhi the next month. These outlets will serve as experience centers where customers can explore the vehicles, get detailed information, and complete bookings. More showrooms are expected to open in other metro cities as demand grows.

What Lies Ahead For Tesla India

The arrival of the first batch in September will be a key moment for Tesla’s India journey. Successful deliveries and customer feedback will set the tone for future growth. In the coming months the company is likely to focus on

• Expanding its sales and service network
• Strengthening charging facilities in major cities
• Exploring possibilities of local assembly to make cars more price friendly

With more than 600 confirmed orders, Tesla has managed to capture attention in a short time. Now, all eyes are on September, when the first Indian customers will finally get behind the wheel of their new electric SUVs.