Tesla has made its long-awaited entry into India with the opening of its first showroom — nine years after CEO Elon Musk first teased the move in April 2016 and following years of delays and shifting timelines in one of the world’s largest automotive markets.

Musk has talked about India for years. This time, the groundwork is finally being laid. The next few months will show if this is the start of something lasting.

The door handles are flush but easy to use and there are powered doors too. Inside, the Model y has a standard black interior but Rs 95,000 buys you a dualtone version

Tesla’s long-awaited India debut comes as the government considers lowering EV import duties in a U.S. trade deal.

With its sales cratering in the West, the electric vehicle giant is making a high-stakes pivot to the world's third-largest auto market.

Tesla has launched its first showroom in Mumbai, India. This move comes after stalled import duty negotiations. The company faces competition from luxury carmakers and Chinese EV companies. Market testing is crucial for Tesla,

Experts told CNBC that Tesla will compete in the premium segment of the market with the likes of BMW, rather than with local EVs like those from Tata Motors.

Tesla opened its first showroom in Mumbai, with Maharashtra Deputy CM taking a test ride. Bookings for the Model Y SUV are now open, and deliveries may start next month. The state aims to attract further investments in the EV sector.