Elon Musk postpones India visit citing 'heavy Tesla obligations'; plans to visit later this year
Elon Musk postpones visit to India: Tesla CEO Elon Musk has delayed his trip to India. In a post replying to a news report that cited the delay of his India Trip, Elon Musk posted on X "Unfortunately, very heavy Tesla obligations require that the visit to India be delayed, but I do very much look forward to visiting later this year."
Unfortunately, very heavy Tesla obligations require that the visit to India be delayed, but I do very much look forward to visiting later this year.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 20, 2024
Musk planned to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to India. Last week, the Tesla CEO confirmed his first visit to India, expressing anticipation for the meeting with PM Modi.
Taking to his official handle, Musk had posted on X, "Looking forward to meeting with Prime Minister @NarendraModi in India!"
Musk was also expected to disclose details of the automobile major's plans for the country, going forward.
Earlier reports indicated that Tesla officials were actively exploring potential locations in India for a manufacturing facility, which is expected to require an investment of around USD 2 billion. Tesla's keen interest in expanding its presence in the Indian market has grown, with the company actively searching for an appropriate site to establish an advanced manufacturing facility.
Sources suggest that both the governments of Maharashtra and Gujarat have offered attractive land deals to Tesla, indicating significant progress in India's electric vehicle (EV) landscape. The proposed manufacturing plant, with estimated investments ranging from USD 2 billion to USD 3 billion, aims to serve both domestic and international demand for Tesla's electric vehicles.
This move aligns with India's new EV policy, which aims to promote sustainable transportation and reduce carbon emissions.
Under the government's EV scheme, which aims to position India as a preferred manufacturing hub for EVs with advanced technology, several key objectives have been outlined. These include attracting investments from global EV manufacturers, promoting the adoption of advanced EV technology among Indian consumers, and bolstering the Make in India initiative. Furthermore, Tesla's entry into the Indian market holds great promise for the country's economy and environment.
The establishment of a manufacturing plant and increased procurement of auto parts from India are expected to generate employment opportunities, foster economic growth, and strengthen the domestic manufacturing sector.
- With inputs from agencies
