The two-wheeler industry in India is expected to sustain a steady volume growth rate of around seven to nine percent in FY2024-25 as far as the domestic market as well as the export markets are concerned. 

The growth in FY2024-25 is expected to be driven by higher electric vehicle (EV) penetration in the market, according to a report released by CareEdge Ratings. A big catalyst in higher EV penetration in the market is going to be the Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme 2024 (though only till July 2024 and likely to get an extension), expectation of interest rate cuts in second half of FY2024-25, strong demand for new model launches, recovery in exports from its low base of FY2023-24 and favourable monsoon which would improve rural consumer sentiment and income levels. 

Pointing out at a combination of factors behind the growth of two-wheelers in such as traction in EV volumes, wider range of models and new launches, the report highlights a robust double-digit growth pace in each of the two quarters that ended on March 2024 on a year-on-year basis in FY2023-24, the report states the restriction in the automotive segment growth in the first half of FY2023-24 was on account of the increase in vehicle prices post the implementation of the phase-II of the BS VI emission norms, higher interest rates and stressed rural incomes. Sales revived in the second half of the respective fiscal on the back of festive season demand and uptick in rural sentiments.

“Post-covid, sales volume of two-wheelers had consistently declined during FY20, FY21 and FY22 before starting to recover from FY23, with sales momentum continuing in FY24 as well. CareEdge Ratings anticipates two-wheeler sales volume growth to continue in FY25 and it would be more driven by improved domestic sales, higher EV sales, launch of CNG powered two-wheelers and good traction in executive and premium segment motorcycles.” said Hardik Shah, Director, CareEdge Ratings.

In FY2022-23, the Indian two-wheeler industry recorded sales of 19.51 million units, an eight percent growth compared to the previous fiscal year’s 18.01 million units. In FY2023-24, the industry continued its upward trajectory, achieving 9.8 percent growth with a total sales volume of 21.43 million units. However, this was still short of the peak sales volume recorded in FY19 when annual sales volume had reached 24.46 million units, as per the report.

In FY2023-24, the domestic two-wheeler industry witnessed total sales volume of 17.97 million units, reflecting a growth rate of 13 percent. Exports volume experienced a decline of five percent even though it recovered from the low of FY2022-23. The decline in exports was attributed to challenges in the African markets, which traditionally accounted for a significant portion of India’s two-wheeler exports. 

EVs propel two-wheeler growth 

The overall volume growth in FY2022-23 and FY2023-24 was supported by the increasing demand for electric two-wheelers, according to the CareEdge Ratings report. In FY2022-23, electric two-wheeler sales reached approximately 0.73 million units, accounting for 4.54 percent of total two-wheeler sales (compared to 1.87 percent in the previous year), reflecting a remarkable year-on-year growth of 188 percent albeit on a low base. 

Continuing the positive trend, electric two-wheeler sales grew by around 30 percent in FY2023-24 surpassing volume of 0.94 million units. The demand for electric two-wheelers is driven by a shift in consumer preferences towards options that offer lower fuel costs, reduced maintenance, and lower servicing requirements compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) models. The government’s FAME II programme – till FY2023-24 – has made EV ownership more affordable, thereby contributing to volume growth.

The Indian Government’s newly introduced Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme 2024 (EMPS 2024) has continued to bolster electric two-wheeler sales in FY2024-25 – that is until July 2024. Despite the higher initial cost of electric two-wheelers, consumers are increasingly making the switch to EVs, the report pin points.

Segment wise, motorcycles have consistently dominated the market, contributing to majority of the two-wheeler sales. Sales volumes of motorcycles grew by eight percent in FY2023-24 and that of scooters grew by 13 percent during the respective period. This segment-wise growth trend is expected to continue in FY2024-25. 

With motorcycles continuing to be popular due to their superior fuel efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and versatility, scooters have also gained traction among urban commuters. 

Image for representative purpose only.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, has launched its XPulse 200 4V and XPulse 200 Pro motorcycles in the United Kingdom, expanding its international adventure motorcycle line-up.

The rollout represents the next phase of the manufacturer's European expansion, following its initial entry into the UK market last year through a distribution partnership with MotoGB.

The motorcycles were introduced at the Inch Perfect Trials in the Ribble Valley, marking the brand's latest European expansion following recent market entries in Italy and Spain. Distribution and aftersales service will be managed via MotoGB’s network of 36 sales and service outlets across the UK, with all models backed by a two-year warranty.

Both models are powered by a 199.6cc, four-stroke, four-valve, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine paired with a five-speed constant-mesh transmission. The engine produces 18.9 BHP at 8,500 RPM and 17.35 Nm of torque at 6,500 RPM. The motorcycles feature an LCD instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation, a Class-D LED projector headlamp and three anti-lock braking system (ABS) modes (Road, Off-Road and Rally).

Harshavardhan Chitale, CEO, Hero MotoCorp, said, “The launch of the XPulse 200 series marks an important step in strengthening Hero MotoCorp’s global adventure motorcycling portfolio in the UK. The XPulse has created a strong identity globally as an accessible yet highly capable adventure motorcycle that appeals to both - everyday riders and off-road enthusiasts. With its proven performance, versatility and adventure-focused DNA, we are confident that the XPulse range will strongly resonate with the riders. As we continue to expand across international markets, our focus remains on bringing globally benchmarked products and building deeper customer engagement worldwide.”

The XPulse 200 Pro includes hardware adaptations for off-road use, featuring handlebar risers to assist with standing positions and an extended gear shift lever designed to accommodate off-road riding boots. Both variants are equipped with protective bash plates, handguards, and a rear luggage plate with integrated cargo hooks as standard equipment.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Chennai-headquartered two-wheeler and three-wheeler major TVS Motor Company, a part of TVS Group, has appointed Ravindran Shanmugam as an independent director for a 5-year term, effective 13 May 2026, pending shareholder approval.

Shanmugam is a technology entrepreneur and business leader with experience in digital transformation and AI platforms. He currently serves as the Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Mablle, an AI-based interior design platform in Singapore. He has previously worked as a management consultant at McKinsey & Company and is an alumnus of the University of Oxford.

Sudarshan Venu, Chairman, TVS Motor Company, said, “Ravindran Shanmugam brings deep expertise in digital & consumer-focused businesses, and AI-led transformation, along with strong experience in strategy, entrepreneurship and scaling businesses across global markets. His perspectives will add valuable depth to the TVS Motor board as we continue to strengthen our future-ready growth ambitions. We are delighted to welcome him and look forward to benefiting from his insights and guidance.”

Ravindran Shanmugam, said, “I am honoured to join the board of TVS Motor Company, an institution with a strong legacy of engineering excellence, customer trust and global ambition. Mobility is being reshaped by technology, digital ecosystems, AI and evolving consumer expectations, and TVS Motor is well positioned to play a meaningful role in this transformation. I look forward to contributing to the board’s deliberations and supporting the company’s long-term growth journey with perspectives from technology-led transformation, platform businesses and consumer-focused innovation.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Chennai-headquartered two-wheeler and three-wheeler major TVS Motor Company has reported revenue of INR 472.70 billion for FY2025-26, up 30 percent YoY, as compared to INR 362.51 billion last year.

The company reported its operating EBITDA for the year stood at 12.9 percent, while operating profit before tax reached INR 49.75 billion, up 40 percent YoY.

For FY2026, combined sales of two and three-wheelers increased by 24 percent to 5.88 million units. Within this total, motorcycle sales rose by 24 percent to 2.71 million units, while scooter sales grew by 27 percent to 2.41 million units.

Three-wheeler sales reached 219,000 units, an increase of 63 percent, while electric vehicle sales grew by 33 percent to 371,000 units, bringing the total customer base for this segment to more than 900,000.

For Q4 FY2026, the company recorded revenue of INR 128.08 billion, the operating EBITDA margin for the quarter was 13.1 percent. Normalised revenue for the quarter grew by 36 percent when excluding benefits from government incentive schemes recorded in the prior year.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI), one of the leading two-wheeler manufacturers, has officially launched the NX500 E-Clutch at a price of INR 743,900 (ex-showroom, Delhi).

The new variant introduces Honda's globally proven clutch automation technology to the mid-size adventure touring segment, priced approximately INR 111,000 higher than the standard manual version.

The E-Clutch system manages clutch engagement and disengagement during starting, gear shifting and stopping, effectively eliminating the need for the rider to pull the clutch lever. However, the system allows for manual override at any time and the motorcycle retains a traditional clutch lever for riders who prefer hands-on control.

The NX500 E-Clutch features a 471cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine producing 47 bhp and 43 Nm of torque. It gets a 6-speed gearbox with the automated E-Clutch system; the mechanism adds only 3 kg to the bike's kerb weight (now 199 kg). The motorcycle gets steel diamond frame with Showa 41mm SFF-BP USD front forks and a preload-adjustable rear monoshock.

In terms of stopping, it gets dual 296mm front discs and a 240mm rear disc with dual-channel ABS as standard.  

The NX500 features a 5-inch full-colour TFT display with Honda RoadSync (navigation, calls, music), Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and all-LED lighting.

Tsutsu Otani,  President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “The Honda NX500 equipped with E Clutch technology enhances comfort and control across both urban and touring environments in India, by reducing rider fatigue, while retaining the engaging, hands-on riding experience that defines Honda motorcycles.”

The NX500 E-Clutch is available in two colour options – Mat Gunpowder Black Metallic and Pearl Horizon White.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!