Billionaire entrepreneur and Tesla CEO Elon Musk has called his recent conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi “an honor,” further hinting at a potential visit to the country later this year. The statement has generated buzz in both business and political circles, as India positions itself as a major destination for global electric vehicle (EV) investments.
Musk, who is known for his unpredictable public remarks and vision for a sustainable future, made the comment following a virtual interaction with Prime Minister Modi. Though the details of the conversation have been kept largely under wraps, both parties reportedly discussed Tesla’s prospective entry into the Indian market, the potential for manufacturing facilities, and broader cooperation in clean energy and technological innovation.
“It was an honor to speak with Prime Minister Modi,” Musk wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter). “India has tremendous potential for sustainable energy solutions, and I’m looking forward to visiting later this year.”
This is not the first time Elon Musk has spoken positively about India or expressed interest in tapping into its growing EV market. However, previous attempts by Tesla to enter India were stalled due to regulatory roadblocks, particularly concerning import duties. The Indian government has long maintained that Tesla should commit to local manufacturing before receiving tax concessions — a point of contention in earlier negotiations.
That stance appears to be shifting. Earlier this year, the Indian government unveiled a new EV policy aimed at attracting global automakers. The policy offers reduced import taxes for companies that commit to setting up domestic manufacturing facilities within a specific timeline. Industry insiders believe this change has reignited Tesla’s interest in entering the market on more agreeable terms.
Musk’s latest remarks come at a time when India is aggressively pushing its green energy and e-mobility agenda. With rising pollution levels and increasing fuel costs, the country is aiming to make a significant transition towards cleaner transportation. The entry of a high-profile player like Tesla could be a major boost for that vision.
Analysts see Musk’s endorsement of Prime Minister Modi and the promise of a visit as signs of warming relations between Tesla and the Indian government. “This is more than a courtesy statement,” said Rajeev Singh, an auto industry expert. “It suggests that behind-the-scenes discussions may be reaching a more concrete stage. If Tesla commits to building a gigafactory or a major plant in India, it could be a game-changer.”
Tesla is also reportedly exploring locations for a new manufacturing plant in India, with Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu being among the contenders due to their established auto hubs and EV-friendly policies. Local media reports suggest that state officials have been in touch with Tesla representatives, offering attractive land and incentive packages to lure the EV giant.
For Modi, Musk’s interest aligns with his government’s “Make in India” initiative, which encourages foreign companies to manufacture within the country. A Tesla factory would not only bring in significant foreign direct investment but also create jobs and elevate India’s profile in the global EV supply chain.
Beyond cars, the conversation between Musk and Modi is also believed to have touched upon other areas of mutual interest, including space exploration and satellite internet. Musk’s other company, SpaceX, is looking to bring its Starlink internet service to India, potentially bridging connectivity gaps in rural regions.
While an official timeline or commitment has yet to be made public, Musk’s comments offer a promising sign that Tesla’s India journey could finally take off. His anticipated visit later this year may coincide with major announcements, potentially marking a turning point in India’s electric mobility ecosystem.
As India eyes a cleaner, more connected future, a collaboration between one of the world’s most visionary entrepreneurs and one of its fastest-growing economies could be the spark that electrifies the nation’s next industrial leap.