Why Did Elon Musk Highlight Rohit Sharma’s Tesla Drive on Social Media?

Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma, gearing up for the upcoming ODI series against Australia starting October 19, has inadvertently become a poster child for Tesla's marketing prowess. A video of Sharma driving his newly acquired Tesla Model Y has exploded on social media, amassing millions of views and underscoring why the electric vehicle giant rarely invests in traditional advertising.

The clip, shared widely on X (formerly Twitter), captures Sharma navigating city streets in the sleek SUV, highlighting its seamless performance and futuristic design. With Sharma's massive following—over 45 million on Instagram alone—the post exemplifies celebrity-driven word-of-mouth buzz in an era dominated by digital influencers.

Elon Musk, Tesla's co-founder and CEO, amplified the moment by reposting the video with a simple caption: "This is why Tesla doesn't need to advertise." The endorsement from the tech mogul, known for his hands-on social media strategy, propelled the content further, sparking debates on organic branding versus paid campaigns. Tesla's approach has long relied on such viral moments, leveraging high-profile owners like celebrities and athletes to drive interest without multimillion-dollar ad spends. Sharma's purchase arrives as he and teammate Virat Kohli return to international cricket after a hiatus following the 2025 Champions Trophy, adding a layer of national pride to the electric mobility narrative.

The buzz coincides with Tesla's strategic push into more accessible segments through its new Standard variants of the Model Y and Model 3, launched exclusively in the U.S. to counter softening sales amid rising competition from rivals like BYD and Ford. Priced lower than their Long Range counterparts—now rebranded as Premium—these entry-level models strip non-essential features to broaden appeal.

The Model Y Standard, for instance, forgoes the panoramic sunroof, light bars, and second-row screen, opting for 18-inch wheels, manual adjustments for steering and mirrors, and a basic seven-speaker audio system. It draws power from a 69.5 kWh battery, delivering 300 horsepower and an estimated 517 km range per charge, and is available in just three colours: white, black, or grey.

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Similarly, the Model 3 Standard features standard 18-inch wheels (upgradable to 19-inch), a grey exterior (with black as a paid option), and retains the panoramic sunroof but omits the rear touchscreen. These changes aim to lower production costs while maintaining core Tesla hallmarks like Autopilot capabilities and over-the-air updates. Analysts see the move as timely, with global EV demand projected to grow 25% in 2026 despite economic headwinds.

For Sharma, a known car enthusiast with a garage boasting luxury rides from Mercedes to Ferrari, the Model Y addition signals a shift toward sustainable options—mirroring a trend among athletes prioritising eco-conscious lifestyles. As the India-Australia series looms, this off-field highlight reminds fans that even superstars are charging toward a greener future.

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