After years of anticipation, Tesla has officially entered the Indian market with the launch of its globally successful electric SUV, the Tesla Model Y. Starting at a price of ₹59.89 lakh (ex-showroom), the Model Y is now available for pre-order via Tesla’s newly inaugurated showroom in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC).

Pre-Bookings start at ₹22,220 with ₹3 lakh due 7 days after booking. The deliveries are expected to start from Q3 2025.

With a starting price of ₹59.89 lakh, it's a strong competitor to BYD Sealion 7, which ranges from ₹48.90 lakh to ₹54.90 lakh. Let’s see how they compare across various specs.

Model Y
Tesla Model Y

Pricing & Availability

Tesla Model Y

  • Launched mid-July 2025 in Mumbai.
  • Rear‑wheel-drive version priced at ₹59.89 lakh and Rear‑wheel-drive Long‑Range version priced at ₹67.89 lakh (ex-showroom), with deliveries from Q3 2025.
  • Being imported from China (Shanghai) and subject to high import duties (up to 100%).

BYD Sealion 7

  • Launched in February 2025; deliveries began March 7.
  • Two trims: Premium (RWD) at ₹48.90 lakh and Performance (AWD) at ₹54.90 lakh (ex-showroom).

Verdict: BYD offers a more budget-friendly option, ₹5-19 lakh less.

Battery & Range

Tesla v BYD
Tesla v BYD

Tesla claims a WLTP real-world range of 622 km. BYD's range is slightly lower at 567 km, but impressive given the price.

sealion 7 launched 1
BYD Sealion 7

Performance & Power

  • Model Y (RWD Long‑Range): Tesla hasn’t released full specs for the motor; 0–100 km/h in 5.6 s.
  • Sealion 7 Premium (RWD): 313 PS, 380 Nm; 0-100 km/h in 6.7 s.
  • Sealion 7 Performance (AWD): 530 PS, 690 Nm; 0-100 km/h in just 4.5 s.

Tesla’s RWD model (long range) is outshined by BYD, though Tesla might outperform with the motor, but nothing can be said for certain since the final specs for India are pending.

Interior & Features

Tesla Model Y

  • Minimalist design with a single 15.4” inch central screen, optional 8” rear screen, ambient lighting, acoustic glass, panoramic sunroof.
  • Tech perks like Dog Mode, Sentry Mode, Arcade, OTA updates, Autopilot/Full Self Driving (FSD).

BYD Sealion 7

  • Rotatable 15.6″ touchscreen, 10.25″ digital cluster, HUD, ventilated & heated seats, panoramic glass roof, 12‑speaker system, V2L functionality, dual‑zone AC, 11 airbags, Level‑2 ADAS.
  • Interior praised by users for quality and spaciousness.
Model Y
Tesla Model Y

Charging & Infrastructure

Tesla Model Y

  • Tesla Home Charger; adds 267 km in just 15 minutes, though final details are unknown.

BYD Sealion 7

  • AC charging up to 11 kW; home wallbox limited to 7 kW. DC fast charging up to 150 kW (10–80% in ~30 min).

Tesla may offer faster charging long-term, while BYD’s fast-charge capability is strong now.

Local Fit & Suitability

Tesla Model Y

  • Right-hand-drive variant not yet confirmed.
  • There have been past concerns about TESLA’s ground clearance on Indian roads.
  • High import duty makes entry price very steep; intended as luxury purchase.

BYD Sealion 7

  • Specifically brought to India, made for local conditions.
  • Owners praise ride on local roads; ground clearance feels more suited.
  • After-sales network via BYD dealers is in place.
sealion 7 launched 5
BYD Sealion 7

Final Verdict

  • Budget-conscious luxury: BYD Sealion 7 offers strong value with lower price, comparable tech and features, good range, and fast charging.
  • Tech prestige & ecosystem: Tesla Model Y provides brand status, OTA updates, future Supercharger access, and FSD potential, but at a significantly higher cost.

If you're looking for an advanced EV without breaking the bank, Sealion 7 is the better fit. But if you want the Tesla experience and are ready to pay a premium, Model Y will deliver that, assuming you're fine waiting for local infrastructure and specs.