🚗 Tesla in India 2025 – RTO Registration, Tax Rules & EV Policies (Complete Guide)
Electric cars are no longer a future concept—they're here, and they're transforming the way we drive. Among all EV manufacturers, Te
⚡ Tesla’s Journey in India – What’s New in 2025?
After years of speculation and delays, Tesla finally made an official entry into the Indian market in 2024, setting up a local assembly plant in Maharashtra. By mid-2025, Tesla has started accepting orders for the Model 3 and Model Y through its dedicated Indian website and selected showrooms in Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru.
This marks a significant shift for Indian car buyers. Tesla is no longer just a luxury import—it is becoming a practical and eco-friendly option for urban commuters. With increasing awareness and government support for EVs, Tesla is expected to be a game-changer for the Indian electric vehicle industry.
📌 Tesla Models Available in India (2025)
- Tesla Model 3: Entry-level sedan, starting at ₹45 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Tesla Model Y: Compact SUV with premium features, approx. ₹55 lakh
- Custom Orders: Tesla Model S and Model X are available on demand (import only)
All models come with Autopilot, Supercharger access, and smart connectivity features tailored for Indian conditions.
📄 Step-by-Step RTO Registration Process for Tesla in India
Electric vehicle registration is smoother than ever with digitized services under the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways. Here's a breakdown of the Tesla registration process at the RTO in 2025:
- Step 1: Invoice & Delivery Note
After purchasing a Tesla from the showroom or online, you'll receive a delivery note and invoice. - Step 2: Temporary Registration (TR Number)
Tesla provides a temporary number (TR) valid for 30 days for initial driving permissions. - Step 3: Slot Booking on Parivahan
Visit Parivahan.gov.in → Select 'New Vehicle Registration' → Choose your RTO office and book a slot. - Step 4: Document Upload
You need to upload the following documents:- Invoice copy
- Insurance document
- Form 20 (Application for RC)
- Form 21 (Sale Certificate)
- Form 22 (Roadworthiness Certificate from Tesla)
- Aadhaar and PAN Card of the owner
- Step 5: Road Tax Payment
Most states like Maharashtra, Delhi, Karnataka offer 100% road tax exemption for electric vehicles. Some states may charge nominal processing fees. - Step 6: Physical Vehicle Inspection
Visit your selected RTO office with the vehicle for chassis imprinting, photos, and verification. - Step 7: Get Smart RC Card
After approval, the RTO sends your Registration Certificate (RC) with a green number plate to your registered address via post in 10–15 days.
🟢 EV-Specific Benefits for Tesla Owners in India
The Indian government has launched several central and state-level schemes to promote EVs like Tesla. Here are the major benefits you get:
- Zero Road Tax: Available in Delhi, Maharashtra, Telangana, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu.
- Green Number Plate: All EVs get a special green plate indicating zero emissions.
- Income Tax Deductions: Under Section 80EEB, EV buyers can claim up to ₹1.5 lakh deduction on loan interest.
- No Fuel Cost: Charging a Tesla at home costs less than ₹1/km.
- Low Maintenance: No engine oil, minimal servicing, and longer part life.
📘 Real Story: Tesla Owner Experience – Mumbai Case Study
Case: Mr. Ankit Verma, a 34-year-old entrepreneur from Mumbai, was among the first few to register a Tesla Model 3 in India after local assembly began in 2025.
He shared his experience:
“Buying the Tesla was easy online. I booked the Model 3 for ₹2 lakh and paid the rest on delivery. The showroom helped with documents, but I had to visit the RTO myself for the final RC. The Parivahan portal was super helpful. Within 14 days, my green number plate and RC arrived at my home. I didn’t pay a single rupee in road tax, thanks to the Maharashtra EV policy.”
He now charges the car using a wall-mounted charger installed by Tesla and saves nearly ₹12,000/month in fuel expenses compared to his old diesel SUV.
⚙️ Charging Infrastructure for Tesla in India
One of the concerns with Tesla ownership is charging. But in 2025, things have improved a lot:
- Tesla Superchargers: Installed in Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Hyderabad, Bengaluru
- Home Charging: Tesla provides free installation for wall chargers at home or office
- Public EV Charging Stations: Over 10,000 charging stations are now available across India
- Charging Time: Superchargers can charge up to 80% in 30–45 minutes
💰 Total Cost of Ownership – Is Tesla Worth It?
Let’s break down a Tesla Model 3's cost in 2025:
- Ex-showroom price: ₹45,00,000
- Insurance: ₹1,00,000
- Road tax: ₹0 (Maharashtra)
- Charging setup: ₹60,000 (free in some cities)
Total on-road cost: ₹46.6 lakhs
Fuel savings (per year): ~₹1.4 lakh
Maintenance savings (per year): ~₹50,000
Total savings in 5 years: ₹9.5–10 lakh
🧾 Important RTO Forms for Tesla Registration
| Form | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Form 20 | Application for RC |
| Form 21 | Sale certificate |
| Form 22 | Roadworthiness certificate |
| Form 34 | Hypothecation if financed |
| Form 60/61 | PAN not available |
✅ Pro Tips Before Registering a Tesla in India
- Ask your Tesla showroom which RTO they have tie-up with
- Avoid buying from importers; it causes issues in registration and homologation
- Choose a state with better tax/subsidy policies
- Ensure insurance covers EV battery & software
- Register online during morning hours for faster RTO slots
🔚 Conclusion
Owning a Tesla in India in 2025 is not only possible—it’s practical, affordable, and exciting. With zero road tax in most states, rising fuel prices, and fast EV registration via Parivahan, now is the best time to shift to electric mobility.
Make sure to follow the proper RTO process, prepare your documents, and enjoy a sustainable driving future.
Need help with Tesla RTO registration or EV policies? Visit RTOIndiaHelp.com for guides, updates, and real user stories.
