Biplab Das 
The Indian automotive industry has demonstrated resilience as the domestic sales numbers for September 2023 exceeded expectations, showcasing growth across various categories, according to SIAM. The data, when compared to the same month in 2022, highlights the industry’s ability to adapt to evolving consumer preferences and economic challenges.
Rising Passenger Vehicle Sales
In September 2023, India witnessed an increase in the sale of passenger vehicles. A total of 3,61,717 units were sold, reflecting a noticeable surge from the 3,55,043 units sold in the same month the previous year. This uptick in demand can be attributed to the changing dynamics in the passenger vehicle segment, with automakers offering more choices and enhanced features to cater to diverse customer needs.
Three Wheelers Gain Momentum
The three-wheeler segment showed significant growth, especially in the passenger carrier category. The number of units sold rose from 39,363 in September 2022 to an impressive 59,501 in September 2023. This 51% increase suggests a growing preference for three-wheelers as a mode of public transport, emphasizing their role in improving last-mile connectivity.
Emergence of Electric Three-Wheelers
Electric three-wheelers, which include e-rickshaws and e-carts, also witnessed a substantial increase in sales. The sales numbers for e-rickshaws soared from 2,950 units in September 2022 to 4,569 units in September 2023, reflecting a 55% rise. This signals a growing adoption of electric mobility in the three-wheeler segment and aligns with India’s commitment to cleaner and more sustainable transportation.
Two-Wheelers Maintain Dominance
The two-wheeler segment, often considered the backbone of the Indian automotive industry, maintained its dominance. In September 2023, a total of 17,49,794 two-wheelers were sold, a modest increase from the 17,35,199 units sold in the same month the previous year. While the growth is relatively subdued, it demonstrates the robustness of this segment.
Scooters and Motorcycles Remain Popular
Scooters and motorcycles have consistently been the preferred choice for Indian consumers. In September 2023, scooter sales saw a slight surge, with 5,89,087 units sold compared to 5,72,919 in September 2022. On the other hand, motorcycle and step-through sales remained almost stagnant, with 11,15,764 units sold in 2023 compared to 11,14,667 in 2022. These statistics show that these categories continue to hold their ground, with a steady demand base.
Mopeds See a Dip
Mopeds, which cater to a niche segment of consumers, experienced a decline in sales. In September 2023, 44,943 mopeds were sold, marking a decrease from the 47,613 units sold in September 2022. This decrease can be attributed to evolving customer preferences, as many opt for scooters and motorcycles that offer more advanced features and versatility.
Quadricycles on the Rise
The quadricycle segment also showcased a slight increase, with 88 units sold in September 2023, compared to 72 in September 2022. While this category represents a relatively small portion of the Indian auto market, the increase indicates a growing interest in these compact, efficient vehicles.
An Overview of the Indian Auto Market
The Indian automotive market’s performance in September 2023 reflects the industry’s adaptability to changing consumer preferences and economic dynamics. The surge in passenger vehicle sales and the growing popularity of electric three-wheelers highlight the shift toward cleaner and more sustainable modes of transportation.
While two-wheelers, particularly scooters and motorcycles, continue to be the backbone of the market, the decline in moped sales suggests a need for manufacturers to innovate and meet evolving customer demands.
The positive growth in the quadricycle segment further demonstrates that Indian consumers are open to exploring new vehicle categories that offer fuel efficiency and ease of mobility.
As the Indian automotive industry continues to evolve, it’s essential for manufacturers to remain agile and responsive to changing market dynamics. The rise in sales across various categories in September 2023 is a testament to the sector’s ability to do just that.
The domestic sales figures for September 2023 in India exhibit a promising trend for the automotive industry. The growth in sales across various categories, including passenger vehicles, electric three-wheelers, and quadricycles, highlights the changing dynamics and evolving consumer preferences in the Indian auto market. These figures indicate that manufacturers who can meet these shifting demands are likely to thrive in the competitive Indian automotive landscape.
