Tesla appears to be accelerating its long-anticipated entry into India, with a camouflaged Model Y seen driving on Indian roads over the weekend. The sighting comes amid preparations for the company’s official sales launch in the country, expected in the coming months.
A video posted to Reddit on Sunday showed a privacy-wrapped Model Y SUV being tested in India. The vehicle’s appearance comes shortly after Tesla received certification to sell the Model Y and Model 3 in the country, marking the first step toward introducing its electric vehicles (EVs) to the Indian market. A similar sighting occurred just days earlier on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, suggesting expanded testing of the refreshed model.
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@volklub Tesla testing on Mumbai pune express way pic.twitter.com/2s2FWiyJ2B
— Ashish Pol (@ashishpol86) April 15, 2025
While Tesla often uses privacy wraps to conceal unreleased vehicles, the Model Y’s arrival has sparked speculation over which variants will be sold first. Some expect the Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) version—recently launched in select markets—while others point to the Performance model, anticipated to debut later this year.
See also: Tesla Expected to Begin India Sales in 2025, Initial Shipments Planned
According to Indian media, Tesla has signed a five-year lease for a showroom in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex, with a second location planned near New Delhi’s Aerocity. The company has also been ramping up hiring for these locations, recently hosting a recruitment event in Mumbai.
Tesla’s delayed entry into India has largely been attributed to the country’s high import tariffs and the government’s insistence on using local suppliers. Last month, reports emerged suggesting Tesla may be working with the Tata Group on domestic component sourcing, including castings, forgings, and electronics—signaling a potential breakthrough in local production strategy.
See also: Tesla Prepares for India Entry with Retail Expansion and Hiring Push
With its showroom plans advancing and vehicle testing underway, Tesla’s debut in one of the world’s largest automotive markets now appears imminent.