Indian automakers see best Navratri sales in six years — but FADA cautious on high inventory

Though the first half of October an 8% YoY decline in auto sales on account of Shraddh period, retail sales during the 2023 Navratri period soared 18% annually, surpassing the figures of Navratri 2017, the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) said in its monthly update on November 6.

“Except for tractors, which saw an 8% decline, all categories exhibited commendable growth. Two-wheelers, three-wheelers, commercial vehicles, and passenger vehicles experienced increases of 22%, 43%, 9%, and 7%, respectively,” the dealers’ body said in a statement.

Compared on a month-on-month basis, FADA said, auto retails sales rose 13% increase.. Two-wheelers, three-wheelers, passenger vehicles, tractors, and commercial vehicles expanded by 15%, 2%, 7%, 15%, and 10%, respectively, underscoring the sector's robust growth momentum.

According to the FADA report, the two-wheeler category during the Navratri period and throughout October saw festive cheer and stronger rural demand. “Enhanced availability of models, especially those in high demand from the previous year, along with better financial schemes, contributed to a solid market momentum. States going into elections also injected optimism into the market, leading to an increase in government spending and improved liquidity,” the auto body said.

The passenger vehicle segment, meanwhile, witnessed enthusiasm as well as caution. During Navratri, despite regional variability, the industry witnessed a surge in bookings, buoyed by the introduction of compelling new models, particularly SUVs and the availability of attractive consumer offers. However, the impact of local elections and market saturation meant that the festive spirit didn't translate uniformly into sales across all regions, FADA said.

According to the dealers’ association, the near-term outlook for the auto sector is a blend of highs and lows. Festivities along with harvest season (especially paddy) are expected to boost two-wheeler sales, with optimism fuelled by new schemes and a push towards electrification, despite supply concerns. CVs are looking at a strong November, with festive and construction activities enhancing demand, alongside anticipated financial schemes, it said.

However, the passenger vehicle segment is navigating through a tricky phase. Festive days might spike bookings, yet the shadow of year-end discounts looms over immediate sales.

FADA cautioned that high inventory levels in PVs, at a critical 63-66 days range, demand urgent attention from OEMs.

“Without substantial interventions and if Diwali sales don't rise to the occasion, the weight of unsold stock could lead to significant dealer distress, echoing FADA's concerns for potential industry-wide repercussions. Immediate and decisive action is imperative to counter the risk of a financial squeeze as the year closes,” the auto body said.