Audi Joins Tesla, Says Cut Duty On EVs

New Delhi: Echoing the demand raised by American auto giant Tesla, German luxury maker Audi has sought a relaxation of 3-5 years on import of electric luxury cars to India. It emphasised that “moderate taxation and stable policy” can see the Indian luxury market grow nearly three times from the current levels.

- Pankaj Doval

Audi has said that import duty for environmentally clean electrics should be fixed at 5%, in line with what is reserved for those making locally, instead of the over 200% cumulative taxes reserved for the general gamut of imported cars, including sports and petrol/diesel vehicles.

Audi, which saw sales grow by 100% last year (around 3,300 cars but on a Covid-hit low base) and 49% in the first half of this year (at 1,765 units), says that it is ready to drive in new models — both electrics and petrol — if regulatory environment becomes easier.