Mumbai, Maharashtra — Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik made headlines on Friday after becoming the first official Tesla Model Y owner in India, just a day after the American EV giant launched its inaugural showroom in the country. Sarnaik’s move is being hailed as a strong public endorsement of electric vehicles (EVs), underlining the state government’s intent to foster green mobility.
The purchase took place at Tesla’s newly opened showroom at Maker Maxity Mall in Mumbai’s Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC). Addressing reporters outside the gleaming facility, Sarnaik emphasized that his decision to buy the Tesla Model Y was rooted in a broader vision — not just personal preference.
“This purchase is more than a personal decision — it’s a statement,” Sarnaik told media persons. “I want to create awareness about electric mobility. I believe children should grow up seeing EVs as a normal part of life.”
He revealed that the car was intended as a gift for his grandson, adding a personal dimension to what he termed a symbolic act. But he was quick to clarify that no special privileges were extended to him.
“I did not receive any special discount. I am just a proud customer like everyone else,” he said, reaffirming the government’s commitment to transparent governance and sustainable development.
A Strategic Endorsement of Electric Vehicles
Sarnaik’s public purchase of a Tesla car isn’t just a gesture of individual environmental consciousness — it’s a calculated political and social message. As Maharashtra’s Transport Minister, Sarnaik holds a critical portfolio that oversees the future direction of urban mobility, public transportation, and vehicular regulation in one of India’s most industrialized states.
By purchasing the Tesla Model Y, a globally recognized electric SUV, Sarnaik is sending a clear signal about the direction Maharashtra intends to take on transportation policy. It aligns with the government’s broader plans to incentivize EV adoption, build charging infrastructure, and reduce vehicular emissions in highly polluted urban areas like Mumbai, Thane, and Pune.
Tesla Model Y Specifications and Market Position
The Tesla Model Y, which Sarnaik purchased, is now being offered in India in two rear-wheel-drive (RWD) variants. The base model comes at an ex-showroom price of ₹59.89 lakh, while the Long Range RWD variant is priced at ₹67.89 lakh.
This positions the Model Y in the premium electric vehicle segment, attracting buyers who are looking for high performance, global brand recognition, and sustainable mobility without compromising on luxury.
Tesla’s decision to enter the Indian market through Maharashtra has not gone unnoticed either. The state, with its industrial hubs and affluent urban consumers, offers a logical launchpad for the company’s India strategy.
Tesla’s First Footprint in India
Tesla’s showroom, spread across 4,000 square feet, functions both as a retail outlet and an experiential center. It allows potential buyers to test drive Tesla vehicles, understand their unique features, and engage with Tesla representatives in real time.
The inauguration ceremony saw participation from senior state leaders, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Tesla’s South Asia Regional Director Isabel Fan. The following day, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also visited the experience centre and took a test drive of the Tesla Model Y, signaling political support across factions for Tesla’s presence in India.
Growing Enthusiasm Among Consumers
The buzz around Tesla’s arrival was palpable at the BKC showroom. Hundreds gathered, drawn not only by the vehicle itself but also by the larger narrative of EV adoption. Families, automobile enthusiasts, and young professionals queued up for test drives, selfies with the car, and first-hand looks at the interior tech that has helped Tesla dominate global markets.
One visitor, overwhelmed by the experience, summed it up saying:
“The experience was out of this world. We’re trying it for the first time and it feels like the future is already here.”
Tesla’s minimalist design, autopilot capabilities, and efficient powertrain are all features that are expected to attract premium buyers in urban Indian markets.
Support from the Next Generation
Backing his father’s stance, Parvesh Sarnaik, a Shiv Sena leader, also weighed in on the occasion.
“Electric vehicles are the future. I urge the people of Maharashtra to make the switch. It’s time we take bold steps toward a sustainable tomorrow,” he said.
His comments reflect the generational shift in how Indian consumers, especially urban youth, view mobility and environmental responsibility.
Policy Environment Favoring EV Adoption
Maharashtra has already announced a slew of policy incentives for EVs, including road tax waivers, registration fee exemptions, and subsidies for electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and cars. The state also plans to expand public charging infrastructure, with special focus on urban centres and highways.
The government’s push aligns with the national vision under the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME-II) policy, which offers financial support to both manufacturers and buyers.
Earlier this year, Tesla India Motors and Energy Pvt Ltd secured its trade certificate from the Andheri RTO, paving the way for vehicle registration and official test drives in the Indian market. This development was crucial in allowing Tesla to legally sell and deliver cars in the country.
Sarnaik’s Personal Journey Adds a Layer of Aspiration
Pratap Sarnaik’s personal trajectory from a modest upbringing in Thane district to becoming a four-time MLA from Ovala-Majiwada adds a compelling human element to the story. His decision to be the first buyer is not just symbolic; it’s aspirational.
It sends a message to constituents and citizens alike that EVs are not just for Silicon Valley tech giants or billionaires, but can be part of the everyday Indian’s future, especially with increasing support from governments and evolving market dynamics.
Challenges Remain, But Momentum is Building
Despite the fanfare, challenges still exist. EVs in India face issues like:
- Limited charging infrastructure in semi-urban and rural areas
- High upfront costs compared to internal combustion vehicles
- Lack of widespread awareness among mainstream consumers
However, Sarnaik’s endorsement, Tesla’s market entry, and growing public interest indicate that the ecosystem is maturing rapidly. With Tesla joining Indian manufacturers like Tata Motors and Mahindra in the EV space, competition is expected to drive innovation, price rationalization, and infrastructure development.
Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik’s purchase of the Tesla Model Y has sparked not only public curiosity but also critical conversations around electric mobility and environmental responsibility. As the first official Tesla customer in India, his action stands as a public endorsement of cleaner transportation. While the road to mass EV adoption is long, events like these accelerate momentum, bridge the awareness gap, and strengthen India’s journey toward a more sustainable, tech-driven automotive future.
