New Delhi, 27th April 2025: Tesla’s futuristic Cybertruck has been spotted in India, sparking speculation about its imminent launch. The electric pickup truck, imported via Dubai, was seen in Gujarat and Mumbai, with viral social media footage showing it on a flatbed truck near Mumbai. Industry insiders suggest Tesla may announce official India plans soon, though pricing and launch details remain unconfirmed.
Key Details and Sightings:
The Cybertruck, owned by Surat-based businessman Lavji Badshah, was imported from Dubai under temporary Carnet rules, allowing limited private use. Badshah, a prominent local entrepreneur, reportedly brought the vehicle to India for personal purposes, as evidenced by its Dubai license plates. The truck’s sighting near Mumbai’s expressways aligns with Tesla’s rumored plans to open its first showroom in the city.
Regulatory Hurdles and Temporary Import:
Importing vehicles under Carnet permits restricts usage to a few months and mandates re-export, making permanent registration impossible. “Carnet imports are strictly for temporary use,” said a Mumbai-based customs official, speaking anonymously. “Users must return the vehicle to its origin country after the permit expires.” This suggests the sighted Cybertruck is not part of Tesla’s official testing but a private import.
Technical Specifications and Features:
The Cybertruck boasts a stainless-steel exoskeleton, 548 km range, and acceleration from 0–100 km/h in 2.6 seconds. Its 15-inch touchscreen, 15-speaker audio system, and bullet-resistant design position it as a premium offering. Tesla offers an 8-year/240,000 km warranty on its battery and drivetrain globally, though India-specific terms remain unclear.
Launch Timeline and Market Strategy:
While Tesla has not officially confirmed India plans, reports indicate the company has finalized a Mumbai showroom location and conducted discreet road tests. Automotive analyst Rohan Seth from Mumbai’s AutoInsight Research said, “Tesla’s entry depends on government negotiations over import duties and local manufacturing commitments. A late-2025 launch is plausible if policies align.”
Pricing Expectations:
Globally, the Cybertruck starts at approximately $60,000 (₹50 lakh). In India, import duties could push prices beyond ₹1.5 crore. However, Tesla’s potential local assembly might reduce costs. “Direct imports at current duty rates make the Cybertruck a niche product,” Seth added. “Local production or lower tariffs are essential for competitive pricing.”
Industry Reactions:
The Cybertruck’s design and specs have drawn mixed responses. “Its polarizing look may limit mass appeal, but tech enthusiasts will flock to it,” said Priya Menon, an EV consultant in Bengaluru. Meanwhile, social media users have praised its rugged build and performance, with viral videos amassing millions of views.
Government and Policy Factors:
Tesla’s India entry hinges on ongoing talks about reduced import taxes for EVs, a sticking point in previous discussions. A senior official from the Ministry of Heavy Industries stated, “We are open to incentives for companies committed to local manufacturing.” This aligns with Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s emphasis on sustainable energy solutions during his 2023 meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.