Indian auto sales soar in April 2024: 2-wheelers lead with 30.8 per cent growth

Indian auto sales soar in April 2024: 2-wheelers lead with 30.8 per cent growth

The standout performer in the domestic market is the two-wheeler segment.

The latest data released by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) reveals a promising uptick in domestic auto sales for April 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.Although there are some difficulties in its way, the Indian automotive sector shows strength and growth driven by positive consumer sentiments and festivities.

Vinod Aggarwal, President, SIAM said, “Year 2024-25 has started on a reasonably good note for the Auto industry, as all the segments have posted growth in April 2024, compared to April 2023, driven by positive consumer sentiments and festivities in this month. Above normal monsoon rainfall, policy continuity post-elections and Government’s push on manufacturing and infrastructure would propel the overall economic growth which would help in continuing the Auto sector’s growth trajectory.”

Strong performance across segments

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In April 2024, the total passenger vehicle sales witnessed a marginal increase of 1.3% compared to April 2023, reflecting steady consumer demand and improving economic conditions. The positive trend extends to three-wheelers, with both passenger and goods carrier segments experiencing double-digit growth rates of 11.9% and 64.3%, respectively.

Two-wheeler segment dominates

The standout performer in the domestic market is the two-wheeler segment, which recorded a remarkable surge in sales. Scooters, motorcycles, and mopeds registered significant year-on-year growth rates of 25.2%, 34.4%, and 20.0%, respectively. This robust performance underscores the enduring popularity of two-wheelers as a primary mode of transportation in India.

Challenges in e-rickshaw segment

However, the data also highlights challenges faced by certain subsegments, notably e-rickshaws, which experienced a sharp decline of 49.5% in sales compared to April 2023. This downturn may be attributed to various factors such as changing consumer preferences, regulatory hurdles, and supply chain disruptions.

(Note:BMW, Mercedes, JLR & Volvo Auto data are not available. Tata Motors Domestic Sales data included only in ‘Total PV’, detailed break-up is not available. However, without Tata Motors, ‘Total PV’ would be 2,84,271 for April 2023 and 2,87,746 for April 2024)

Implications of government policies

Government policies and programs have been the main force in the transformation of the automotive industry. The increasing focus on electric vehicles and sustainable transportation solutions is clearly shown in the comparison of the performance of conventional and electric vehicles. Though the sales of petrol and diesel-powered cars are still the mainstay, the electric vehicle market is slowly but surely becoming popular.

Market dynamics and consumer behaviour

The change in the way consumers behave towards digital platforms and online shopping channels has altered the automotive retail environment. Manufacturers and car sellers are now more and more recognizing the importance of the digital marketing and the virtual showroom to connect with the customers and to boost the sales.

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Outlook and future prospects

In the future, the automotive industry is hopeful but at the same time, very much careful about the road ahead. Although the possible supply chain disruptions still exist, the economic recovery that is now underway, boosts confidence of the sustained growth rate.

The April 2024 domestic auto sales report of the SIAM shows the Indian automotive sector's resiliency and adaptability. Although the industry has to deal with the multiple challenges, it still proves that it can be able to change and be successful in the dynamic environment. With strategic interventions and collaborative efforts, the automotive industry is poised for a promising future ahead.