Indian carmakers end fiscal 2024 at record levels as March sales rise

Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra reported higher car sales in March, wrapping up fiscal 2024 at record levels, monthly data from the automakers showed on Monday.

Each month, automobile makers in India release wholesale numbers, or vehicle sales to dealers.

The numbers are seen as a key indicator of private consumption in India. The auto sector has more than 50% weightage in calculating the country’s economic growth.

A surge in domestic sales of pricier sport utility vehicles, or SUVs, last year has extended into 2024. Utility vehicles accounted for nearly 60% of total passenger vehicle sales from April 2023 to February 2024, according to industry data.

Entry-level car sales floundered last year. In a bid to increase demand, automakers have banked on higher discounts in the segment.

Meanwhile, product launches and improved rural demand for entry-level models have helped bolster two-wheeler sales, while the high-end segment has seen fierce competition.