Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde Rides Tesla: A Big Deal for the State

NEW DELHI: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde made headlines by riding a Tesla outside the Vidhan Bhavan on Tuesday. This event came shortly after the electric vehicle giant, Tesla, launched its first showroom in India, marking a significant milestone for the state and the country.

Speaking to the media after his ride, Shinde emphasized the importance of Tesla's presence in Mumbai. “It is a big deal that Tesla has opened its showroom in Mumbai,” he said. “Maharashtra has the highest foreign direct investment. The state has good infrastructure, and investors are willing to invest here because Maharashtra has become an industry-friendly state.”

The Tesla showroom has been set up at Maker Maxity Mall in Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), a high-end business district in Mumbai. This launch marks the company’s first physical presence in India after years of talks, delays, and policy discussions. For now, Tesla is entering the Indian market through imported models without committing to local manufacturing.

The Model Y, Tesla’s entry-level SUV in India, has prices starting at Rs 60 lakh, according to the company’s updated price list released on Tuesday. Two variants are being offered to Indian buyers: the Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) priced at Rs 60 lakh, and the Model Y Long Range RWD priced at Rs 68 lakh. These prices reflect the premium positioning of Tesla in the Indian market, targeting affluent consumers and early adopters of electric vehicles.

Maharashtra’s strategic importance in the electric vehicle (EV) market cannot be overstated. The state’s robust infrastructure, supportive policies, and a growing interest in sustainable technologies have made it an attractive destination for EV manufacturers. The entry of Tesla is expected to further boost the state’s reputation as a hub for innovation and advanced manufacturing.

In addition to Tesla, several other EV manufacturers have shown interest in setting up operations in Maharashtra. This could lead to a significant increase in job opportunities and economic growth, while also contributing to the state’s goals of reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transportation.

Eknath Shinde’s public support for Tesla’s entry into the Indian market sends a strong signal to other businesses and investors. It highlights the state government’s commitment to fostering a business environment that is conducive to innovation and growth. As the EV market continues to evolve, Maharashtra is well-positioned to play a leading role in shaping the future of transportation in India.

Overall, the launch of Tesla’s first showroom in Mumbai and the deputy chief minister’s public endorsement of the brand are significant steps forward for the state’s EV ecosystem. They underscore the growing importance of electric vehicles in India’s automotive landscape and the potential for Maharashtra to become a key player in this emerging market.