Tesla to start operations in India next year
What's the story
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, on Monday, said American electric car major, Tesla is set to start its operations in India next year. It is also looking forward to setting up a manufacturing unit based on demand. In October this year, Tesla Inc. co-founder and chief executive officer, Elon Musk had said that the company will enter the Indian market in 2021.
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Gadkari's statement on the Tesla distribution facility
"Tesla will have its distribution facility in India from 2021 and considering the demand, it will look into setting up a manufacturing unit here. India has the potential to become the largest electric vehicle producer in the world in the next five years," Gadkari said.
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Here is what Musk had tweeted
Next year for sure
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 2, 2020
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What it holds for India?
EVs will result in reducing carbon emissions by 30-35 percent by 2030 and cut down on Rs. 8 lakh crore-worth crude oil imports. The government plans to set up at least one e-charging kiosk at each of the petrol pumps across the country with an aim to accelerate the uptake of EVs.
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Gadkari speaks about government's plans
"The Centre intends to have an EV sales penetration of 30 per cent for private cars, 70 per cent for commercial cars, 40 per cent for buses, and 80 per cent for two and three-wheelers by 2030 by providing incentives," he said.
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Opportune time for India to grow in EV industry
Gadkari said, "It is an opportune time to harbor the ambition of becoming number one in EVs as raw material and skilled manpower was available in India, making it a win-win situation." The Maharashtra government had already said it is looking for potential investment from Tesla in the state and has held discussions with the company.