Leaders in Asia’s third-largest economy want to capitalize on the growing chill between Beijing and Washington by positioning it as an alternative destination for companies seeking to limit their exposure to China.
Modi’s New York visit included gatherings with potentially more than 20 high-profile individuals, according to a person familiar with the plans who asked not to be identified discussing private matters.
Critical collaboration
Collaboration on critical and emerging technologies between U.S. and Indian companies, and reducing regulatory barriers standing in the way of trade in strategic areas, are key for Modi and President Joe Biden’s meeting scheduled for Thursday, U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said at an industry event in New Delhi last week.
Musk’s ventures with India could extend beyond Tesla. In addition to electric vehicles, he told reporters he sees potential in the country for sustainable power generation through solar and wind, and energy storage in stationary batteries.
He intends to revive efforts to launch SpaceX’s Starlink internet for remote Indian villages that don’t have access to broadband. Musk last year said SpaceX was waiting for government approval to roll out services after setting up a wholly-owned unit in India in 2021.
Tesla didn’t respond to an email sent to the press address on its website. Representatives for India’s ministries of external affairs and road transport and highways didn’t respond to requests for comment.
Tesla factory
Musk has been scouting for the location of Tesla’s next factory. Earlier this month, he met Emmanuel Macron, who said France would tout its attractiveness for hosting a possible plant, but it’s for the carmaker to review prospects for projects in Europe. Italy is another suitor.
