Tesla Takes a Key Step towards the Indian Market
Tesla has been eyeing the Indian market for long, but regulatory issues and imposition of high tariffs have kept its entry on hold. Latest reports indicate otherwise. Scarcely days after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Tesla CEO Elon Musk, the company has initiated its recruitment process in India, indicating a breakthrough is in the offing.
Tesla announces job openings in India
On Monday, Tesla posted LinkedIn advertisements for jobs in 13 positions, varying from backend to customer services. Tesla is in search of full-time employees in a minimum of five key positions such as service technicians and advisors in Delhi and Mumbai. Tesla also stated that positions such as Customer Engagement Manager and Delivery Operations Specialist would be completely Mumbai-based.
Challenges in Tesla's India Entry
Tesla has been attempting to enter India since 2021. Tesla has requested the government to cut import duties on electric vehicles (EVs), a major point in its growth strategy. India's central government, however, has attached some conditions, such as Tesla needing to source material locally and initiate local production. Musk has lamented these terms, and Tesla's Indian launch has been held up as a consequence.
Recent Policy Changes and Modi-Musk Discussion
In a significant development, India reduced the minimum customs duty on cars that cost more than $40,000 (approximately ₹34 lakh) from 110% to 70% recently. The policy shift may help Tesla enter. Also, when Modi recently traveled to the United States, he met Musk, and it is said that import tariffs were discussed.
Tesla Cars May Arrive on Indian Roads Soon
With recruitment already underway and policy changes in the offing, business analysts say Tesla is on the cusp of opening its car sales in India. If all are moving at their current speed, Tesla cars would be a reality among Indian consumers shortly.
