Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday test-drove a Tesla outside the Vidhan Bhavan in Mumbai, just a day after the American electric vehicle giant launched its first showroom in India. The moment was captured in a viral video that quickly spread across social media platforms.
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik accompanied Shinde as a passenger as they arrived at the state assembly, showcasing the government’s enthusiasm for Tesla’s entry into the Indian market.
“A Big Deal for Maharashtra” – Deputy CM’s Statement
“It is a big deal that Tesla has opened its showroom in Mumbai”, stated Eknath Shinde after his test drive experience. This statement underscores the significance of Tesla’s Indian launch for Maharashtra’s automotive and technology sector.
The Tesla Model Y, an electric midsize SUV, was officially launched in the Indian market on Tuesday, marking a historic moment for electric vehicle adoption in the country.
#WATCH | Maharashtra Dy CM Eknath Shinde took a ride in the Tesla car outside the Vidhan Bhavan in Mumbai.
— ANI (@ANI) July 16, 2025
Tesla marked its official entry into the Indian market with the launch of its first showroom in Mumbai yesterday. pic.twitter.com/GvTopQ3WLL
Political Significance and EV Policy Support
Maharashtra leaders celebrated Tesla’s India entry with Deputy CM Eknath Shinde test-driving the Model Y in Mumbai. This public endorsement reflects the state’s commitment to promoting electric vehicles and sustainable transportation.
The moment signals strong political support for Tesla’s official entry into the Indian market, potentially encouraging other international EV manufacturers to consider India as a viable market.
Also Read:- Tesla Model Y Finally Launches in India
Tesla Model Y Launch: Technical Specifications and Market Impact
The Tesla Model Y that Deputy CM Eknath Shinde test-drove represents Tesla’s strategic entry into India’s premium electric vehicle segment. The all-electric SUV offers advanced autopilot features, impressive range capabilities, and cutting-edge technology that aligns with India’s growing demand for sustainable mobility solutions.
Tesla’s Mumbai showroom launch coincides with India’s National Electric Mobility Mission Plan, making the timing of Maharashtra Dy CM Eknath Shinde took a ride in the Tesla car particularly significant for the state’s EV infrastructure development.
Maharashtra’s EV Infrastructure Development Plans
The state government’s enthusiastic reception of Tesla signals accelerated plans for EV infrastructure expansion across Maharashtra. With Deputy CM Shinde’s public endorsement, the state is positioning itself as a leader in India’s electric vehicle transition.
This high-profile Tesla test drive comes at a crucial time when Maharashtra is implementing policies to support EV adoption, including charging infrastructure development and incentives for electric vehicle buyers.
What This Means for India’s EV Future
Tesla’s entry into India, combined with high-profile political support, represents a significant milestone in the country’s electric vehicle journey. Maharashtra’s leadership in welcoming Tesla demonstrates the state’s progressive approach to sustainable transportation and technology adoption.
The viral video of Maharashtra Dy CM Eknath Shinde took a ride in the Tesla car has generated considerable buzz on social media, highlighting public interest in electric vehicles and their potential impact on India’s automotive landscape.
Conclusion: A Turning Point for India’s Electric Vehicle Revolution
Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde’s Tesla test drive outside Vidhan Bhavan marks more than just a political photo opportunity—it represents a pivotal moment in India’s electric vehicle adoption journey. The Deputy CM’s statement that Tesla’s arrival is “a big deal for Maharashtra” reflects the state’s commitment to leading India’s sustainable transportation revolution.
This historic moment, captured in the viral video of Maharashtra Dy CM Eknath Shinde took a ride in the Tesla car, demonstrates how political leadership can accelerate the adoption of clean energy technologies. As Tesla establishes its presence in India, Maharashtra’s early embrace of the brand positions the state as a frontrunner in the country’s electric vehicle ecosystem.
The enthusiastic reception from Maharashtra’s leadership suggests that India is ready to embrace premium electric vehicles, potentially paving the way for other international EV manufacturers to enter the Indian market. This could be the beginning of a new era where electric vehicles become mainstream in India’s automotive landscape.