Taxla, Not Tesla? Indians React as Model Y Launches with ₹59.89 Lakh Price Tag
Tesla’s much-anticipated Model Y has officially debuted in India, starting at ₹59.89 lakh (ex-showroom). While electric vehicle (EV) enthusiasts welcomed the news, many Indian social media users couldn’t resist poking fun at the steep price, joking that the car should be called "Taxla" instead, due to the heavy import duties and taxes inflating its cost.
The Model Y, Tesla’s popular electric SUV, promises advanced features, long-range capability, and cutting-edge tech. However, its price in India—nearly double what it costs in some other markets—has sparked mixed reactions. Some potential buyers expressed excitement, while others lamented that high taxes on imported EVs make Tesla vehicles less accessible.
On social media, memes and witty remarks flooded platforms like X (formerly Twitter). One user quipped, "Tesla? More like Tax-la!", while another wrote, "At this price, it better come with a free chauffeur." Many argued that local manufacturing or reduced import duties could make EVs like the Model Y more affordable.
Tesla has been pushing for lower import taxes in India to boost sales, but the government has so far encouraged foreign automakers to manufacture locally instead. Until then, Tesla’s premium pricing remains a hurdle for mass adoption in the Indian market.
