What Did Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik Say at the Delivery of First Unit of Tesla Car? What Are Overall Sales Figures for the Company?
Tesla has started deliveries in India on Friday. The company has sold its first car to Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik. Sarnaik took delivery of Model Y from Tesla's newly opened showroom in Bandra Kurla Complex in Mumbai. The state transport minister said that his decision to buy the car was to spread awareness about electric mobility.
Sarnaik shared his excitement on X (formerly Twitter), posting photos of himself next to the white Model Y, writing, “A new milestone towards green mobility – proud to welcome Tesla home!”
He said, "I have taken delivery of Tesla to spread awareness about electric mobility among citizens, especially the younger generation. I want children to see these cars from an early age and understand the importance of sustainable transportation."
Will gift this car to grandson
Sarnaik said that he will symbolically gift this car to his grandson.
At the time of delivery, Sarnaik said, "Even though the cost is a little higher today, the more important thing is to set the right example and accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles." The minister of state highlighted Maharashtra's incentives such as toll exemption on Atal Setu and Samruddhi Expressway and said that the state transport department has already purchased about 5,000 electric buses.
Company has received only over 600 orders
However, the buzz about the arrival of Tesla in India has not been reflected in its sales. According to several reports earlier this week, since start of booking in mid-July, the company has received only over 600 orders.
Deliveries limited to Mumbai, Delhi, Pune and Gurugram
Globally, Tesla sells this many cars in a matter of hours. The company may ship 350 to 500 cars to India this year, with the first consignment arriving from Shanghai in early September. Deliveries will initially be limited to Mumbai, Delhi, Pune and Gurugram.
Meanwhile, Tesla is moving ahead with its plans in India. The company is setting up charging stations in Mumbai and Delhi and is preparing to launch a new experience center in South India next year.