Rev, Sputter, Stall

GROWTH IN the automotive sector has shown a divergence in FY25 (YTD as of August) with two-wheeler exports leading the charge by growing 13% year-on-year (YoY) to 14,68,145 units from 12,95,132 units in the same period of FY24. Two-wheeler sales posted a strong 16% increase to 92,39,528 units compared to 79,33,196 units the previous year. But rural stress showed in weak domestic tractor sales, which grew 2% to 2,15,679 units. Domestic passenger vehicles followed with a 2% rise to 16,61,063 units. A leading indicator of stress in the economy, CV sales, fell 2% from 3,61,423 units to 3,53,573 units. Domestic three-wheeler sales rose 4% to 2,84,090 units. Auto makers will hope the onset of festive season will bring in good tidings.