Tesla Eyes Pune for EV Plant as Maharashtra Leads in India Expansion

Report by The Newsage Pune.

Land in Chakan and Chikhali Offered to Tesla for Setting Up Manufacturing Plants for EVs

Tesla is actively scouting locations for its first electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing plant in India, with Maharashtra emerging as the frontrunner. The company is particularly considering sites near Pune, a major automotive hub, due to its existing presence in the city and strong supplier base.

Tesla intends to expand its firm to India, particularly in Pune. Since Maharashtra is emerging as one of the main states in India as a manufacturing plant, it serves as a feasible basis for the project. Additionally, Pune is a major automotive hub and has strong supplier base which will cater to the needs of the company. Land in Chakan and Chikhali has been offered to Tesla, while Tesla has leased an office in Pune, implying long term associations.

According to an Economic Times Report, the Maharashtra government has offered Tesla land in Chakan and Chikhali, both close to Pune. Chakan is home to leading automobile manufacturing like Mercedes-Benz, Tata Motors and Volkswagen, making it an ideal choice for Tesla's expansion. Tesla's renewed interest in India follows Elon Musk's meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during which Musk reportedly sought tariff reductions on imported EVs.

While Maharashtra is leading the race, Tesla is also evaluating factors such as proximity to ports before finalizing a location. In 2023, Tesla leased an office in Pune, signaling long-term interest in the region. With Maharashtra keen to secure the project, discussions with Tesla are ongoing. However, no final decision has been made yet.