Following Modi-Musk Meeting, Tesla Hints India Entry with Job Listings

Tesla’s long-awaited debut in the Indian market seems to be on the horizon, with the EV maker beginning the recruitment process in the country. The company has posted job openings for several positions such as store managers, service technicians, and service advisors. This move follows a meeting between Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a visit to the United States. Although Tesla has yet to make an official announcement, the job listings, primarily focused on Mumbai, have fuelled speculation that the company is preparing to set up its first full-fledged dealership in the city. The recruitment also signals Tesla’s serious commitment to expanding its footprint in India, a critical market for its global expansion strategy.

Tesla's entry into India is set to speed up the country’s shift to electric vehicles, offering advanced technology, sustainability, and high-performance cars to Indian buyers. As India works to reduce its carbon footprint and move toward cleaner energy, Tesla’s innovative cars will play an important role in shaping the future of transportation.

Major Roadblocks for Tesla’s Entry into India

Tesla’s plans to enter India have encountered several roadblocks, with one of the biggest being high import duties, which made its vehicles costly. However, recent reductions in basic custom duties on luxury cars priced over $40,000 have made the Indian market more appealing to electric vehicle manufacturers, including Tesla. This change could help ease some financial barriers and pave the way for Tesla’s much-anticipated launch.

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Another challenge Tesla faces is the underdeveloped EV infrastructure in India, including the need for charging stations and service centers. Additionally, competition from local automakers rapidly expanding their EV offerings may push Tesla to adjust its strategy to meet India’s unique market demands. Regulatory hurdles and local manufacturing requirements also contribute to the delays in Tesla’s plans to establish production facilities in India.

PM Modi and Musk: Strengthening Ties Between India and Tesla

Had a very good meeting with @elonmusk in Washington DC. We discussed various issues, including those he is passionate about such as space, mobility, technology and innovation. I talked about India’s efforts towards reform and furthering ‘Minimum Government, Maximum Governance.’ pic.twitter.com/7xNEqnxERZ

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 13, 2025

During his visit to the United States in February 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had an insightful conversation with Elon Musk in Washington D.C. In a social media post, PM Modi highlighted the meeting as highly productive, where they exchanged ideas on topics close to Musk’s heart, including space exploration, mobility, technology, and innovation.

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The Prime Minister also took the opportunity to share India’s ongoing reforms aimed at promoting efficient governance, emphasizing the country’s commitment to the principles of "Minimum Government, Maximum Governance."

Tesla’s Arrival in India: A Mutually Beneficial Opportunity

Tesla's entry into India promises a mutually beneficial partnership, giving the company access to India’s growing EV market. For India, it will be a key step toward leading the global electric mobility revolution and accelerating the shift to greener transportation.