Tesla’s long-awaited India debut comes as the government considers lowering EV import duties in a U.S. trade deal.

With its sales cratering in the West, the electric vehicle giant is making a high-stakes pivot to the world's third-largest auto market.

The Indian version of Tesla’ website lists two models of the only EV it will begin delivering this fall, the Model Y. The entry-level version is a standard range, single-motor, rear-wheel drive Y that offers zero to 62 mph (100 kmh) in 5.9 seconds and a 311-mile (500 km) WLTP range.

Experts told CNBC that Tesla will compete in the premium segment of the market with the likes of BMW, rather than with local EVs like those from Tata Motors.

Tesla has launched its Model Y in India, priced at ₹60 lakh, amid high import tariffs. While the entry is strategic, analysts believe the immediate impact on sales and stock may be limited, but long-term potential exists in India's growing EV market.