New Delhi: American electric vehicle maker Tesla can arrange a manufacturing unit in India if it first succeeded with import vehicles in this country, according to the CEO of the Elon Musk company.
He, however, said that at this time import duties in India were “the highest in the world” and hoped for “at least a temporary tariff assistance for electric vehicles”.
Interacting on Twitter with followers who asked him to launch a Tesla car in India Musk said, “We want to do it, but the import duty is the highest in any world!” At present, India imposes 100 percent import duties on cars that are fully imported with CIF values (costs, insurance and shipping) of more than $ 40,000 and 60 percent in the price is less than the amount.
Musk further said, “Clean energy vehicles are treated with diesel or gasoline, which does not seem to be fully consistent with Indian climate goals.” He, however, said, “We hope there will be at least a temporary rates for electric vehicles.
It will be highly appreciated.” Asked by followers whether Tesla could start with a local assembly in India, said Musk, “If Tesla was able to succeed with the imported vehicle, a factory in India was very possible.” A senior government official on Friday said Tesla had asked for reducing import duties.
Recently, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said Tesla had a golden opportunity to establish its manufacturing facilities in India considering the encouragement of the country on electronic vehicles.
Tesla has contributed various car components from Indian car makers and establishing a base here will be economically worth it, said road and highway transportation.
In February this year, Chairman of the Karnataka Minister B Yediyurappa has claimed that Tesla will establish its manufacturing unit in the state.
The company has registered Tesla India Motors and Energy Pvt Ltd with a company registrar, Bengaluru.
Elon Musk expects at least ‘temporary help’ for EVs in India
