In a potentially game-changing move for the electric vehicle (EV) industry, a delegation of senior Tesla executives is set to visit India this week. The visit, confirmed by multiple media sources, is intended to facilitate discussions with federal government officials, including representatives from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office. The primary focus of these discussions will be the exploration of local supply chains for Tesla vehicle components.
This visit could signal a turning point in the historically strained relationship between India and Tesla. The EV giant had previously attempted to penetrate the Indian market, even going so far as to form a local team and begin vehicle testing. However, the Indian government's refusal to make concessions on tax policy, coupled with its advice against Tesla selling China-made cars in the country, led to a stalemate.
The delegation from Tesla will comprise senior executives and managers from the company's supply chain, manufacturing, and business development teams, based in Austin, Texas. It is anticipated that the executives will once again broach the topic of lower import taxes on their vehicles, potentially suggesting alternative solutions to the impasse.
Recent reports suggest that Tesla has initiated discussions around building an EV factory in India. This news follows the company's announcement of the development of a next-generation platform and two new car models.