Tesla's India entry gets boost as government approves new EV policy
India TodayThe government announced a new electric vehicle policy on Friday that is expected to provide a major boost to Tesla's plans to start operations in India. As part of the new policy, the government will lower import taxes on certain electric vehicles for companies that commit to at least Rs 4150 crore in investment in addition to building a domestic manufacturing facility in the country. They will be granted a three-year period to establish local manufacturing facilities for electric vehicles, ensuring that at least 25 per cent of the components are procured domestically. The manufacturing facilities in India should be set up within 3 years and start commercial production of e- vehicles, and reach 50 per cent domestic value addition within 5 years at the maximum. Yes, a customs duty of 15 per cent would be applicable on vehicles with a minimum CIF value of USD 35,000 and above for a total period of 5 years, provided the manufacturer sets up manufacturing facilities in India within 3 years.