Robb Report India got first access to the spanking new Tesla Experience Centre (that’s what the tech-forward American carmaker is calling its showrooms) in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC). While the brand unveiled its first India offering, the Model Y in two variants, the starting price point of INR 59.8 lakh had polarising responses. Agreed, this is one of the most expensive in Tesla’s global markets, owing largely to India’s import taxes.
Polarising price points notwithstanding, Tesla’s Model Y is not only newsworthy but also enters the luxury car segment in the Indian market. Tesla has released its most popular vehicle to the Indian market in a rear-wheel drive variant at INR 59.9 lakh and a more enhanced long-range variant at INR 67.8 lakh, claiming a range of 500 kilometres and an impressive 622 kms, respectively. Effectively, India is getting the most updated version of the Model Y with optimised suspension (great for Indian roads), a super-insulated cabin (to beat the noise), and gorgeous design cues from the Cybertruck and the Cybercab.
We notice the front light bar, this time, is sans the Tesla patch (we love unbranded luxury!), as well as other cues like the added air inlet, a bumper camera, updated wheels, and enhanced aerodynamics that claim to increase the car’s range by 10 per cent.
On the inside, we see Tesla’s signature minimalism, beautiful pastels and fabric trims, a minimalistic steering wheel (with no driver cluster), and, our favourite part, the futuristic user interface on the central touchscreen. Little thoughtful design touches like wraparound interior lighting, ventilated seats, power recline for the second row, and a high-quality audio experience with the manufacturer’s unbranded speaker system give the Model Y a sense of understated, informal luxury that would appeal to new-age consumers. The cabin experience is definitely worth writing about, and the sweeping panoramic sunroof with its signature curvature design is chic.
With the Tesla charging infrastructure, you can 'supercharge’ your car up to 267 kilometres in 15 minutes or 70 kilometres per hour with a standard wall charger. This car’s incredible safety record is indicated by its 250 updated features.
RR Verdict:
In India, Tesla’s price points have been a bit more aggressive than we speculated. Would a car enthusiast shell out about Rs 60 lakh for a Tesla, over an entry-level German luxury brand? Given Tesla’s unique design proposition, especially on its latest Model Y, like the tech and safety features that underpin every product, we reckon that there will be takers in India. It will appeal to a demographic of younger luxury consumers who prefer green mobility and an informal, minimalistic drive. We can't wait to test it out on the Indian roads!
