Tesla Starts Recruitment in India Following Modi-Musk Meeting

Tesla Inc. has started hiring in India, signaling its plans to enter the market soon after CEO Elon Musk met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the US. The company has posted job openings for 13 positions, including customer-facing and back-end roles, on LinkedIn. Several positions, such as service technician and advisory roles, are available in both Mumbai and Delhi, while others, like customer engagement manager and delivery operations specialist, are specific to Mumbai.

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Tesla Entry Eases Amid Lower Import Duties

Tesla had previously stayed away from India due to high import duties. However, the Indian government recently reduced the basic customs duty on luxury electric vehicles priced above $40,000 from 110% to 70%, making the market more attractive. While India’s EV market is still in its early stages compared to China’s, Tesla sees an opportunity to counter slowing global sales. In 2023, India’s electric car sales reached nearly 100,000 units, significantly lower than China’s 11 million but showing steady growth.

Tesla’s Global Influence and Political Ties

Musk’s meeting with Modi coincided with the Indian leader’s talks with former US President Donald Trump. Trump later stated that Modi agreed to address the US-India trade deficit and consider military purchases, including F-35 fighter jets. Musk’s dual role as a business leader and a key figure in Trump’s administration has raised questions about the intersection of his corporate and political interests. His influence extends beyond Tesla, with SpaceX also engaging in government deals, as seen in recent telecommunications discussions with Italy’s Prime Minister.

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