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On Jan. 13, the world’s second-richest man tweeted “as promised” in response to a story on a Tesla-focused blog that the manufacturer was in discussion with multiple Indian states to build an office, showrooms, and R&D center – and potentially a plant.
According to a source familiar with the situation, Tesla Inc. has begun recruiting for leadership and high-level positions in India as it prepares to enter one of the world’s largest developing automotive markets.
The California-based electric car manufacturer is looking for a head of sales and marketing as well as a head of human resources, according to a person who asked not to be identified. Last Monday, a Tesla fan organisation announced that the business had hired a senior legal counsel.
After months of speculation, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has all but confirmed the company’s entry into India in January. On Jan. 13, the world’s second-richest man tweeted “as promised” in response to a storey on a Tesla-focused blog that the manufacturer was in discussion with multiple Indian states to build an office, showrooms, an R&D centre – and potentially a plant.
Prashanth Menon, who has been with Tesla for around four years, was promoted to country CEO last month, according to local media.
According to a source familiar with the situation, the EV maker is closely following pronouncements from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration on adjustments to the country’s goods-and-services tax that may cut the cost of owning an electric car. It is also awaiting more incentives for EV manufacturers under India’s production-linked incentive programme before making a serious push into the nation.