Skip to content
Search AI Powered

Latest Stories

India factory plans in limbo as Tesla shifts focus

The automaker will use its existing factories to build new and more affordable vehicles

India factory plans in limbo as Tesla shifts focus

US automaker Tesla said that it will use a current platform and production lines to produce what it called "more affordable" models by early next year.

The announcement from the Elon Musk-owned company suggested that investments in new factories in Mexico and India are unlikely in the near term.


Tesla said the change would allow the company to launch low-cost vehicles swiftly but would result in smaller cost reduction than had been expected and modest volume growth.

The leading electric vehicle manufacturer aims to increase production by 50 per cent from 2023 to its current capacity of close to three million vehicles, prior to considering investment in new manufacturing lines.

"This update may result in achieving less cost reduction than previously expected but enables us to prudently grow our vehicle volumes in a more capex efficient manner during uncertain times," the company said.

Earlier this month, it was reported that Tesla had scrapped plans to launch its cheap vehicle, known as Model 2, which Tesla planned to build in Texas, Mexico and a third country.

The new model had been expected to cost $25,000 and drive Tesla's growth into a mass-market automaker.

Meanwhile, Lars Moravy, Tesla's engineering head, said that adopting new manufacturing processes and production lines carries "certain risks."

He indicated that the company has made a "significant change" by prioritising the use of its facilities to rapidly and efficiently produce affordable vehicles for the time being.

Last week, Musk postponed a planned trip to India where he was to meet prime minister Narendra Modi, citing obligations at his automaker and saying he aimed to reschedule the visit for later this year.

Rohan Patel, a Tesla public policy executive who, according to sources, was one of those leading the company's India entry plans, also resigned last week.

Tesla, however, did not provide a comment regarding its plans for Mexico and India.

Last year, Musk affirmed Tesla's intention to construct a factory in Mexico. He added that the timing would depend on economic conditions and interest rates affecting vehicle affordability.

Analysts noted Tesla's challenge in expanding capacity amidst projections of slowing sales following years of double-digit growth.

(with inputs from agencies)

More For You

Air India launches non-stop flight between Delhi and Newark

Air India cabin crew recreate Lunch atop a skyscraper photo

Air India launches non-stop flight between Delhi and Newark

AIR INDIA on Thursday (2) started operating its advanced A350-900 aircraft on non-stop flights between Delhi and Newark Liberty International Airport, following the recent launch of A350 services to New York. This move upgrades all flights between Delhi and the New York area with the airline's modern interiors, featuring private business class suites, premium economy seating, and an enhanced inflight entertainment system, a statement said.

To celebrate the occasion, Air India’s cabin crew explored New York city, revisiting famous landmarks immortalised in both hollywood and bollywood films. Dressed in their new uniforms designed by Manish Malhotra, the crew recreated scenes from iconic movies, connecting the airline's journey with the city’s cinematic heritage.

Keep ReadingShow less
union-carbide-plant-getty

The disaster claimed over 5,000 lives and affected more than half a million people in Bhopal. (Photo: Getty Images)

After 40 years, toxic waste from Bhopal gas leak site sent for disposal

INDIAN authorities have announced the completion of moving toxic waste from the site of the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy to a disposal facility.

The disaster, which occurred nearly 40 years ago, claimed over 5,000 lives and affected more than half a million people in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.

Keep ReadingShow less
India-Pakistan-Getty

This annual exchange has been taking place for over three decades, according to India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). (Representational image: Getty)

India, Pakistan share nuclear facilities list under annual pact

INDIA and Pakistan exchanged lists of their nuclear installations on Wednesday under a bilateral agreement that prohibits attacks on each other's atomic facilities.

This annual exchange has been taking place for over three decades, according to India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Keep ReadingShow less
Kaykay Chauhan: Finding ‘Love & Light’ through soothing music

Kaykay Chauhan: Finding ‘Love & Light’ through soothing music

KAYKAY CHAUHAN, a master of music and spirituality, captivated listeners with his acclaimed 2021 album Mind & Soul. Now, the British musician has returned with Love & Light, a new spiritual collection featuring some of the UK's finest vocalists.

Available on all major streaming platforms and as a special souvenir CD, this album builds on his impressive portfolio as a pianist and composer. Alongside his recordings, Chauhan continues to perform live with his band Kaykay & Co.

Keep ReadingShow less
Rohit-Sharma-Getty

Rohit Sharma has struggled for runs in the first four matches of the series, where India trail 2-1. (Photo: Getty Images)

Rohit Sharma’s inclusion for fifth Australia Test not confirmed

INDIA coach Gautam Gambhir declined to confirm whether captain Rohit Sharma will play in the fifth Test against Australia, stating that the playing XI will only be announced at the toss on Friday.

Rohit has struggled for runs in the first four matches of the series, where India trail 2-1 after a loss in Melbourne earlier this week.

Keep ReadingShow less