PM Modi speaks to Elon Musk ahead of Tesla's India entry. What they discussed

Summary

On April 18, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi rang up Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk to continue conversations they began during Modi’s Washington, D.C. visit earlier this year. The friendly chat underscored shared enthusiasm for deepening U.S.–India ties in emerging technologies and set the stage for Tesla’s much‑anticipated entry into the Indian electric‑vehicle market.

What They Talked About

• Building on Their February Meeting:
  Modi and Musk recapped topics from their face‑to‑face meeting in Washington, D.C., including India’s “Minimum Government, Maximum Governance” reforms and Musk’s ambitions for Tesla, SpaceX, Starlink and other ventures.
• Technology & Innovation Partnerships:
  The leaders explored ways Indian and American companies can team up on AI, advanced mobility, renewable energy and more—areas where both sides see “immense potential.”
• Space Exploration & Connectivity:
  SpaceX’s Starship program, satellite broadband (Starlink), and India’s own space‑tech ambitions featured prominently as natural collaboration points.
• Sustainable Development & AI:
  Sustainable urban transportation, smart cities, entrepreneurship support and ethical AI frameworks rounded out the discussion, reflecting India’s push for green growth and good governance.

Why It Matters

• Tesla’s Market Entry Looms Large:
  With import duties eased under India’s new EV policy and hiring already underway in Mumbai, Tesla could begin deliveries by late 2025—potentially starting in Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru.
• Strengthening Bilateral Ties:
  This call highlights how technology diplomacy is becoming a cornerstone of U.S.–India relations, complementing traditional areas like defense and trade.
• Boost for “Make in India”:
  Musk’s interest in local manufacturing aligns with India’s goal of ramping up domestic production of EVs and high‑tech goods—part of its broader growth strategy.

Looking Ahead

• Follow‑Up Meetings:
  Officials from both governments and Musk’s companies are expected to convene soon to iron out details on factory locations, investment levels and technology‑transfer agreements.
• Policy & Investment Decisions:
  India’s recent cut in EV import duties (conditioned on local manufacturing) and its commitment to regulatory ease will be critical in shaping Tesla’s final entry plan.
• Broader Tech Collaborations:
  Beyond cars and rockets, India and Musk’s ventures may explore partnerships in areas like AI research, renewable‑energy grids, and satellite‑based internet access.

This upbeat exchange between Modi and Musk not only advances Tesla’s India timeline but also showcases how high‑level tech dialogues can drive tangible progress in innovation, sustainability and economic growth.