Elon Musk’s Planned India Visit Delayed, Tesla CEO Announces on X
Elon Musk’s much-anticipated visit to India, originally slated for April 21 and 22, has been postponed. As confirmed by the Tesla CEO himself on social media platform X. The announcement came shortly after CNBC-TV18 broke the news, citing sources familiar with the matter.
Musk’s itinerary for the trip included a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During which he was expected to unveil plans for Tesla’s entry into the Indian market. However, owing to substantial commitments on Tesla’s end, the visit had to be rescheduled. Musk expressed regret over the delay, assuring that he eagerly anticipates visiting later in the year.
The timing of Musk’s intended visit coincided with significant developments in India’s electric vehicle (EV) sector. Just weeks prior, the Indian government had introduced a new policy aimed at incentivizing EV manufacturing within the country. This policy offers duty concessions to electric car companies committed to the “Make in India” initiative. Signaling a conducive environment for Tesla’s potential operations.
Elon Musk’s Planned India Visit Delayed, Tesla CEO Announces on X
Importantly, the visit was expected to mark the unveiling of Tesla’s investment roadmap for India, with speculations suggesting a substantial commitment of around 20-30 billion dollars. However, uncertainties loomed over the status of a potential Starlink agreement during Musk’s visit.
In response to Musk’s previous remarks about being a “Modi fan,” Prime Minister Modi clarified in an interview with news agency ANI that Musk’s support extends beyond personal admiration for him but rather signifies a broader endorsement of India. Modi recalled previous interactions with Musk, including a factory visit in 2015 and a recent meeting during his US state visit in 2023, underscoring Musk’s longstanding interest in the Indian market.
While the postponement disappointed many eagerly awaiting Musk’s visit, it aligns with his previous assurance during a meeting with Modi in June the previous year, where he expressed confidence in Tesla’s eventual entry into the Indian market.