Tesla has taken another significant step toward entering the Indian market. The company has started the homologation process for the Model 3 and Model Y to ensure compliance with India’s safety and emission standards ahead of officially launching sales in the country.
Homologation is a mandatory certification process in any country that verifies a vehicle’s adherence to national regulatory standards, covering things such as safety, emissions, and overall roadworthiness. According to a report by local media publication IANS, citing industry sources, Tesla has officially submitted their application for homologation approval for the Model 3 and Model Y in India, paving the way for Tesla’s market entry.
This application is the latest in a series of steps Tesla has taken to finally enter the Indian automotive market. The automaker initially registered its Indian subsidiary, Tesla India Motors and Energy Private Limited, in 2021, signaling its intent to establish a foothold in the country. However, challenges such as high import duties, which previously stood at as much as 110%, posed significant barriers.
However, recent policy shifts by the Indian government have rekindled Tesla’s interest. That interest grew further after a meeting between Tesla CEO Elon Musk and the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, earlier this year.
Following that meeting, Tesla finalized a lease agreement for its inaugural showroom in Mumbai. The showroom is situated in the Maker Maxity building within the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), a prominent business and retail district near Mumbai’s airport.
Once the lease was secured, Tesla embarked on a recruitment drive to assemble a sales team in India. The company has posted over 20 job openings. The roles span various functions, including vehicle service, sales, customer support, and operations. The company held a hiring day to recruit for these positions.
Beyond Mumbai, Tesla is eyeing additional showroom locations to bolster its presence in India. The company has reportedly selected sites in New Delhi’s Aerocity area near the international airport and is in discussions for potential spaces in other major cities.
