Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, is set to visit India for a crucial meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Sources suggest that Musk will unveil plans for investment and a potential factory in the country during his visit.
The meeting is scheduled for the week of April 22 in New Delhi, according to two sources familiar with the matter.
While both Musk’s team and Modi’s office remained tight-lipped, anticipation is high for the outcome of this encounter.
Musk’s visit coincides with India’s upcoming two-month-long election, where Modi is poised for a possible third term.
A potential Tesla investment would not only mark a significant development for India’s automotive industry but also strengthen Modi’s pro-business image.
Accompanying Musk will be other Tesla executives, signaling the importance of this trip.
This rendezvous follows their last meeting in New York in June, where discussions likely revolved around India’s EV policies and investment climate.
India’s recent EV policy changes, including significant tax reductions, have made the country more attractive for companies like Tesla.
Reports suggest that Tesla officials will scout potential locations for a manufacturing plant during their visit, with an estimated investment of $2 billion.
While Tesla faces challenges in its primary markets, India represents a promising growth opportunity, given the government’s push for electric vehicles.
Despite EVs comprising only 2% of total car sales in 2023, India aims for a 30% share by 2030.
Musk’s visit and potential investment underscore India’s growing significance in the global EV landscape and could pave the way for a transformative shift in the country’s automotive sector.