Tesla, under the leadership of CEO Elon Musk, is exploring the possibility of establishing an electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing plant in Gujarat. The disclosure is anticipated during the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, scheduled from January 10–12, with both Elon Musk and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expected to be present.
Gujarat's strategic location and favourable business environment have elevated it to the forefront of Tesla's manufacturing plans. The state government has proposed locations in Sanand, Becharaji and Dholera. reported by the Ahmedabad Mirror.
Previously, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu were under consideration due to their established ecosystems for electric vehicles and exports. However, Gujarat's appeal seems to have garnered attention.
To make its entry into the Indian market easier, Tesla has been in talks with the Union government. The visit by Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal to Tesla's manufacturing facility in Fremont, California, in November marked a significant step forward in these negotiations.
Potential incentives, such as the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) programme, which aims to support domestic manufacturing, have been the focus of negotiations.
Additionally, recent legislative developments, such as the Telecommunications Bill 2023, may have implications for Tesla, particularly Elon Musk's company, Starlink.
Elon Musk has repeatedly expressed his desire to enter the Indian market.