Data released by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) show a modest uptick in Year-over-Year (YoY) exports in the passenger vehicle (PV) segment despite a slight slump in domestic sales volumes. 

The category representing passenger vehicles, utility vehicles and vans cumulatively recorded 61,929 units being exported in July 2024 compared to 59,594 units in July 2023. Domestic sales volume, however, stood at 2,96,785 units in 2024 compared to 3,02,727 units a year earlier. 

Nonetheless, the production volumes within the PV segment witnessed a YoY uptick with 3,97,854 units manufactured in July 2024 compared to 3,93,094 units a year ago.

Maruti Suzuki India clinched top place for exports in utility vehicles and van while Hyundai Motor India was the frontrunner in the passenger car segment in July 2024. 

Hyundai Motor India exported 12, 297 units (passenger cars) while Maruti Suzuki India shipped off 13,694 units (utility vehicles) and 651 units (vans), respectively. The latter also cliched the second place in passenger car exports with 9,551 units. 

This trend saw a flip in domestic sales with Maruti Suzuki clinching top spot. It sold 69,245 units (passenger car) during July 2024 compared to 16,037 units of Hyundai Motor India. In the utility vehicle and van category Maruti Suzuki sold 56,302 and 11,916 units compared to 16,037 units of Hyundai Motor India. 

India’s three-wheeler market showcased mixed growth in July 2024, as highlighted by SIAM’s latest report. Overall production rose to 90,505 units, marking a 6.1 percent increase compared to July 2023. Bajaj Auto Ltd. led the segment, with production growing by 18 percent to 56,085 units, driven by robust domestic sales of 37,852 units and steady exports.

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. saw a notable shift in its passenger carrier segment, with a production decline to 1,384 units in July 2024 from 3,275 units a year earlier. However, the company’s e-rickshaw segment gained momentum, producing 1,606 units, a 19 percent dip from 2023, but still showing resilience.

In goods carriers, production across manufacturers slightly dipped to 8,721 units, down from 9,654 in July 2023, despite Bajaj Auto’s growth in this subsegment. 

The two-wheeler industry displayed robust growth in July 2024. The sector’s production soared by 21 percent YoY, reaching 19,48,223 units, compared to 16,08,414 units in July 2023. This growth was led by the scooter segment, which surged 41.2 percent to 6,54,748 units. Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India and TVS Motor Company were the primary drivers, reflecting strong demand across urban and semi-urban markets.

The motorcycle segment also recorded healthy growth, with production increasing by 12.8 percent to 12,49,903 units. Bajaj Auto Ltd and Hero MotoCorp Ltd maintained their leadership positions, contributing significantly to this expansion. TVS Motor Company Ltd further solidified its presence, with gains across scooters, motorcycles, and mopeds. Notably, mopeds saw a 19 percent rise in production to 43,572 units, highlighting their continued relevance in certain markets.

Domestic sales remained strong, with the two-wheeler market clocking 14,41,694 units, up from 12,82,054 units in July 2023. Scooters and motorcycles were the top performers, with domestic sales of 5,53,642 units and 8,50,489 units, respectively. 

On the export front, the sector experienced a 7.8 percent rise, reaching 3,24,908 units. Yamaha Motor India and TVS Motor Company led this growth, showcasing the increasing global appeal of Indian two-wheelers.

Overall, the two-wheeler industry continues to thrive, driven by strong domestic demand and a solid export performance, reinforcing its critical role in India’s automotive landscape.

Commenting on July-2024 performance, SIAM Director General Rajesh Menon said, “In July 2024, passenger vehicle segment de-grew by (-)2.5 percent compared to July 2023, posting a sales of about 3.42 lakh units. Three-wheelers posted a growth of 5.1 percent compared to July last year, with sales of 0.59 Lakh units in July 2024, which is close to the peak of 2018-19. Two-wheeler segment also posted a decent growth of 12.5 percent in July 2024 as compared to July 2023, with sales of 14.42 Lakh units”.

Commenting on sales data of July 2024, SIAM President Vinod Aggarwal said, “Though three-wheeler and two-wheeler segments are performing well, there has been some de-growth of passenger vehicles and commercial vehicles in July 2024, compared to July 2023. The above average rainfall coupled with upcoming festive season is likely to again propel growth in the short term. In addition, enabling budget announcements which emphasises on overall economic growth with fiscal support for infrastructure and rural sector should augur well for the automobile sector in the medium term.”

Photo: Prateek Karandikar (Wikimedia Commons)

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Kia India has announced a significant change to its leadership team, naming Sunhack Park as Chief Sales Officer (CSO) and Joonsu Cho as Chief Business Officer (CBO).

As the new CSO, Park will head Kia India’s sales strategy, focusing on sustainable growth, improving operational efficiency and expanding the brand’s market reach. He brings over 28 years of international automotive experience, having held key leadership positions at Kia Headquarters in South Korea, the Middle East & Africa (MEA) and India.

Cho, in his role as CBO, will be responsible for crafting business strategies, overseeing production planning and export logistics, leading cross-functional teams and forging strategic alliances to ensure operational excellence. He has over 32 years of leadership experience from global roles in Australia, the UK and Europe.

Sunhack Park, said, “I am privileged to take on the role as Chief Sales Officer. This is an exciting phase for the brand as we continue to expand our presence in a dynamic and evolving market. My focus will be on driving sales growth, optimizing operational efficiency, and strengthening our dealer and partner ecosystem.”

Joonsu Cho, said, “I am honored to assume the role of Chief Business Officer. Kia India has made remarkable strides in the market, and my priority will be to develop and execute robust business strategies that support sustainable growth and operational excellence.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

RattanIndia Enterprises-owned Revolt Motors, a leading electric motorcycle brand, is strengthening its leadership team and has appointed Raghava Rao as its new Chief Business Officer (CBO).

Rao, a seasoned industry leader, comes with over two decades of diverse experience across the automotive sector, spanning two-wheelers, tractors, three-wheelers and commercial vehicles.

Prior to joining Revolt Motors, he has held senior leadership positions at Kinetic Engineering, Bajaj Auto, Tata Motors, Piaggio Vehicles and TI Clean Mobility (Montra Electric).

Roy Kurian Joins Revolt Motors As President

Rao has expertise in channel sales, customer support, customer experience and market insights, with a proven track record of driving business growth and customer success.

Anjali Rattan, Chairperson, RattanIndia Enterprises, said, “We are delighted to welcome Raghava Rao to the Revolt family. His deep expertise in the automotive industry and proven leadership across multiple business functions will play a crucial role in accelerating our growth journey and further strengthening Revolt’s position as India’s No.1 electric motorcycle brand.”

Rao is an alumnus of the Indian School of Business (General Management Program), holds a B.Tech degree from BITS Pilani, and a PGCSM from XLRI Jamshedpur.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Mumbai-headquartered SUV major Mahindra & Mahindra has launched the new Thar with prices starting at INR 999,000. The vehicle incorporates design changes, comfort features and technology integration, engineered for urban travel and weekend adventures.

The popular SUV has gone home to over 300,000 customers, now features a new exterior, which includes a front grille, a dual-tone front bumper and R18 alloy wheels. The interior includes a black theme dashboard and a new steering wheel. It is available in six colour options, including two new additions: Tango Red and Battleship Grey.

For comfort and convenience, the Thar features rear AC vents for second-row passengers, a sliding armrest and a dead pedal (automatic transmission models). Door-mounted power windows, a rear-view camera and an internally operated fuel lid are included. The vehicle also has a rear wash & wiper and an A-Pillar entry assist handle.

The Thar is equipped with a 26.03 cm HD infotainment screen that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Other tech includes Type-C USB ports and Adventure Stats Gen II, which provides off-road data such as a racing tab, altimeter, outside temperature and pressure, trip meter and steering direction.

Mahindra offers a range of engine options paired with transmissions – a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic – in RWD as well as 4X4 configurations.

Nalinikanth Gollagunta, CEO - Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, “Over the years, Thar has become more than just an SUV – it’s a symbol of freedom, adventure, and a lifestyle that resonates deeply with our customers. At Mahindra, we are committed to listening to our customers and evolving with their needs, which is why the New Thar reflects both their feedback and our dedication to provide the best to our customers. By blending new design elements, smart technology, enhanced comfort and convenience features, the new Thar offers an unparalleled driving experience that empowers our customers to explore limitless possibilities in both urban and off-road settings.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Stellantis-owned Citroen India has launched the new Aircross X SUV, the latest addition to its premium X-Series portfolio, with an introductory price starting at INR 829,000. The launch, the company said, is a key step in the brand’s Citroen 2.0 ‘Shift Into the New’ strategy, positioning the SUV as a feature-rich, spacious option for Indian customers.

The new Aircross X elevates its segment with significant interior and technology upgrades. The cabin features an enriched design with a leatherette-wrapped instrument panel, chic gold accents and a bezel-less 10.25-inch infotainment screen paired with a 7-inch digital cluster. Comfort is enhanced with ventilated leatherette seats, diffused ambient lighting and the brand’s signature Advanced Comfort Suspension.

A standout feature is the introduction of CARA, billed as India’s first multilingual, intuitive in-car companion. CARA can communicate in 52 languages, control essential vehicle functions and prioritise safety with voice SOS and crash alerts. Driving convenience is further improved with Proxi-Sense Passive Entry, Cruise Control and a HALO 360deg Camera with Satellite View.

Emphasising the model’s safety credentials, the launch follows the recent 5-star Adult protection rating awarded to the Aircross 5S variant in the Bharat New Car Assessment Program (BNCAP).

The New Aircross X is available in 5- and 7-seater configurations with options for both ICE and CNG engines. Bookings are now open across all Citroen dealerships and online.

Kumar Priyesh, Business Head & Director – Automotive Brands, Stellantis India, said, “The new Aircross X is an SUV designed around the real needs of Indian families – space, comfort, safety and smart innovation. With the debut of CARA, we’re making everyday mobility more intuitive and personal. What makes the New Aircross X unique is that it blends the practicality of a family SUV with the premium feel of our X-Series design. It is a versatile SUV that’s aspirational, yet accessible.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!