Curtains rise today on Tesla's India foray; Model Y tipped as flagbearer

Global electric vehicle giant Tesla is set to make its long-awaited India debut on Tuesday, with the launch of its flagship Model Y SUV expected to headline the occasion.

- ANJALI SINGH & PRACHI PISAL

The American automaker has locked in Mumbai's upscale Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) as the location for its first showroom in the country, marking a significant milestone in its entry into India's burgeoning EV landscape.

Less than 24 hours before the unveiling, final preparations were underway at Tesla's 4,000 sq ft space in Maker Maxity—an exclusive commercial enclave in BKC that houses sovereign wealth funds and global investment banks. Just a stone's throw away is Apple's flagship store at Jio World Drive Mall.

Shrouded in secrecy, the Tesla storefront remained fully covered in white curtains and black cloth. The iconic logos and what appeared to be the Model Y vehicles stayed concealed from view. Through gaps in the glass, however, glimpses of a black and a white car—presumably the new variants—could be seen. Known for its sleek, sport-coupé-like form, the Model Y is expected to bring Tesla's signature minimalist design to Indian roads.

At 10 am on Tuesday, the veils will lift, officially unveiling Tesla's first physical presence in India. Though anticipation is high, company sources confirmed that Elon Musk, Tesla's co-founder and CEO, will not be attending the event. The unveiling will instead be led by the company's India team. An email to Tesla's India unit seeking confirmation on Musk's attendance went unanswered until press time.