Chandrababu Naidu’s Strategic Move to Bring Tesla Factory to Andhra Pradesh: Boosting India's EV Market

Chandrababu Naidu is silently making strategic moves to bring the Tesla car factory to Andhra Pradesh. Despite former U.S. President Donald Trump's opposition to Tesla's entry into India, Prime Minister Modi met with Tesla CEO Elon Musk during his U.S. visit, strengthening the company's interest in the Indian market. Tesla, owned by billionaire Elon Musk, has already posted job openings in India for 13 positions, including business operations analyst and customer service roles.

While there was speculation about Tesla setting up its factory in cities like Mumbai or Delhi, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu is determined to secure the project for his state. Since the Telugu Desam Party came to power in Andhra Pradesh last October, Naidu has focused on driving the state’s development through various initiatives.

A few months ago, Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh met with Tesla CFO Vaibhav Taneja in the U.S., assuring full support from the state government to establish the car factory. Following Prime Minister Modi’s recent discussions with Elon Musk, reports suggest that Andhra Pradesh has re-engaged in talks with Tesla.

To attract the electric vehicle giant, the Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board has proposed various incentives and land options. With 60% of India’s EV sales concentrated in southern states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Telangana, Naidu’s efforts to set up the Tesla factory in Andhra Pradesh align with regional market trends. Tesla plans to initially increase car imports to India and gradually expand its manufacturing operations.