In recent years, the Indian automobile market has witnessed a significant shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), with companies like Mahindra & Mahindra launching models such as the XEV 9e and BE 6. As Tesla, led by the enigmatic Elon Musk, prepares for its entry into India, the competition landscape intensifies. This has sparked discussions on social media about how local giants like Mahindra and Tata will fare against a global powerhouse like Tesla. Anand Mahindra has responded to these concerns with his characteristic wit, aiming to reassure consumers and stakeholders alike about the resilience and adaptability of Indian car manufacturers.
Mahindra’s Commitment to Innovation
Anand Mahindra is well-known for his active presence on social media, where he frequently engages with the public and responds to various queries. When asked about the competition posed by Tesla, he reflected on the history of Indian automotive industries’ struggles and successes since the liberalization of the Indian economy in 1991. Mahindra emphasized that the company has always managed to thrive despite international competition:
We have been asked similar questions ever since the opening up of the Indian economy in 1991.
How will you compete against:
Tata
Maruti
All MNCs ?But we’re still around.
And working like maniacs to still be around & relevant even a century from now.
With you cheering us https://t.co/6F5xx7tnDC
— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) February 18, 2025
Local Advantages: Resilience in the Face of Competition
A notable response from a user, @JagrutBharatiya, highlights another crucial point: despite the entry of major global brands like Honda and Yamaha into the two-wheeler market, local Indian brands such as Hero MotoCorp and Bajaj continue to thrive. This sentiment echoes the idea that Tesla’s arrival may not threaten local players. Instead, it could enhance competition and drive innovation within the EV space in India:
Despite global giants like Honda and Yamaha entering the two-wheeler market, Indian brands like Hero MotoCorp, TVS, Bajaj, and Royal Enfield continue to thrive.
Similarly, Tesla’s entry into India isn’t a threat—it will drive innovation, boost the EV ecosystem, and strengthen.
— J Gautam
(@JagrutBharatiya) February 18, 2025
(@JagrutBharatiya) February 18, 2025Anand Mahindra’s Historical Insight
Anand Mahindra’s recent remarks have reignited discussions about an earlier tweet from June 2017, where he invited Elon Musk to explore the Indian market, stating that Mahindra wouldn’t want to monopolize the entire market. This exchange highlights the competitive spirit between local players and international entrants:
Time you got out here Elon. You don’t want to leave that whole market to Mahindra do you?? The more the merrier—and greener..! https://t.co/IPoA9viDRN
— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) June 2, 2017
The Future of Tesla in India
With Tesla planning to launch its vehicles in India, including setting up stores in major cities like Delhi and Mumbai, the excitement among consumers is palpable. Reports suggest that Tesla’s cars may be available from April 2025, with starting prices around ₹22 lakh. This strategic move reinforces the importance of electric vehicles in India’s automotive future and presents intriguing possibilities for all players involved.
Conclusion: A Thriving Ecosystem for Electric Vehicles
As Tesla gears up for its much-anticipated entry into the Indian market, the existing players like Mahindra are poising themselves for healthy competition. This evolving scenario not only promises to enhance innovation within the industry but also caters to the increasingly eco-conscious Indian consumer. Therefore, rather than viewing Tesla’s arrival as a direct threat, it can be seen as an opportunity for growth and differentiation in the fast-evolving EV landscape.