The latest data released by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) show that the Indian automotive industry wrapped up FY 2024-25 with a solid performance, driven by resilient domestic demand, an uptick in exports, and a renewed push toward green mobility.

While the pace of growth varied across segments, the industry overall clocked a healthy 7.3 percent increase in domestic sales, reinforcing its steady recovery trajectory in a post-pandemic economy.

The passenger vehicles segment posted its highest-ever annual sales, breaching the 4.3 million mark – a 2 percent rise over the previous year. Although the high base of FY 2023–24 tempered the growth rate, the segment continued to impress with its scale.

SUVs emerged as the dominant sub-segment, accounting for 65 percent of total PV sales, up from 60 percent last year.

The market responded enthusiastically to new launches and customer demand towards higher ground clearance models. It is also important to note that discounts and promotions kept demand buoyant.

On the exports front, a record 770,000 units were shipped, up 14.6 percent, fuelled by demand from Latin America, Africa and emerging interest from developed markets.

India’s ubiquitous two-wheelers rebounded strongly with 19.6 million units sold, marking a 9.1 percent growth over the previous year. The scooter category led the charge, boosted by improved rural and semi-urban road connectivity.

EV penetration crossed 6 percent, reflecting a growing preference for sustainable options.

Two-wheeler exports rose by 21.4 percent, supported by macroeconomic stability in Africa and expansion into Latin American markets.

The three-wheeler segment on the other hand scaled new highs with 741,420 units sold, a 6.7 percent growth over FY 2023–24. Urban and semi-urban demand for last-mile transport, especially electric models seem to have played a key role.

The commercial vehicles segment posted a slight 1.2 percent decline in annual sales, though Q4 offered a glimmer of hope with a 1.5 percent uptick. Light CVs struggled, while Medium & Heavy CVs (M&HCVs) remained steady. Infrastructure development spurred demand for buses and higher-GVW trucks.

CV exports jumped by 23 percent, indicating global recovery in freight mobility.

In terms of EV sales, the country saw 1.97 million green vehicles sold, up 16.9 percent, with electric two-wheelers seeing a 21.2 percent rise in registrations.

Looking Ahead: Optimism with Caution

The industry body stated that going forward leaders are cautiously optimistic about FY 2025–26. Normal monsoon forecasts are expected to aid rural demand. Recent personal income tax reforms and RBI rate cuts could boost vehicle financing and overall consumer sentiment. Continued export momentum, especially in Africa and neighbouring regions, will offer strategic resilience.

But on the other hand, challenges loom in the form of global geopolitical tensions and evolving supply chain dynamics.

Shailesh Chandra, President, SIAM, said, “The Indian automobile industry continued its steady performance in FY2024–25, driven by healthy demand, infrastructure investments, supportive government policies and continued emphasis on sustainable mobility. Passenger vehicles, two-wheelers and three-wheelers grew in FY2024-25 compared to FY2023-24, but growth rates have been varied across segments. Passenger vehicles and three-wheelers witnessed a moderate growth on account of the high base effect but saw the highest-ever sales in these categories, while the two-wheeler segment registered strong growth in FY2024-25. However, commercial vehicles witnessed a slight degrowth in the FY2024-25, though performance in recent months has been comparatively better. On the exports front, good recovery is seen across all segments, particularly passenger vehicles and two-wheelers reflecting improved global demand and India's growing competitiveness. In FY2024-25, the government of India introduced the PM E DRIVE scheme and PM e-Sewa schemes which underscores the firm commitment of the Government towards promoting sustainable mobility. Looking ahead, the backdrop of stable policy environment, along with recent measures such as reforms in personal income tax and RBI’s rate cuts, will help in supporting consumer confidence and demand across segments.

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Discount Tire has earned a prominent position on Glassdoor's Best Places To Work 2026 list, ranking 14th in Consumer Services and within the top 100 US employers. This distinction is awarded to organisations with over 1,000 employee reviews on Glassdoor and a minimum rating of 3.5. For the Scottsdale-based retailer, with more than 1,250 locations nationally, the honour underscores a long-standing commitment to its workforce.

The company cultivates a people-first culture for its over 30,000 employees by providing substantial career growth, thorough training, leadership development and competitive benefits. This philosophy, centred on serving others and empowering personal goals, previously earned Discount Tire top Glassdoor rankings from 2018 through 2021. The latest recognition reaffirms its status as an employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and progressive workplace.

Dean Muglia, Chief Executive Officer, said, "We treat our people like family. We're honoured to be recognised by both current and former employees and Glassdoor as a best place to work. We strive every day to deliver the most inviting, easy and safe experience possible for our people and our customers."

Michael Zuieback, Executive Chairman, said, "Through six and a half decades of growth, our primary commitments have stayed true: We want to take care of people and help make more dreams come true.”

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Radar Tyres has entered a significant, multi-year global partnership with Cricket South Africa, a strategic move to build its brand within a sport enjoyed by a worldwide audience. This alliance grants the company headline sponsorship for the Proteas Men’s and Women’s T20 International sides, alongside associate partnership status for their ODI and Test matches. Radar will also be the headline partner for South Africa’s Under-19 national teams.

The collaboration provides substantial visibility, featuring exclusive logo placement on both match and training kits, with the new T20I apparel already unveiled. For Radar, this investment is a key step in leveraging high-profile platforms to enhance global brand recognition, all while maintaining its commitment to providing high-quality, value-driven tyre products.

G S Sareen, President and CEO, Omni United, said, "Becoming the Global Partner of the Proteas marks a significant milestone in Radar Tyres' global brand journey and reflects our belief in sport as a powerful platform to build brand equity, strengthen dealer support, enhance trust and credibility and connect with households worldwide. Through this partnership, we are able to engage with cricket fans both locally and globally while reinforcing Radar Tyres' as a reliable, performance-driven brand committed to delivering premium-performance at an accessible price point."

Pholetsi Moseki, Chief Executive Officer, CSA, said, "CSA is extremely proud to partner with Radar Tyres, an organisation that shares our values and commitment to excellence. This partnership is a significant milestone, securing support not only for our senior teams but for our junior teams as well. This partnership reflects our deliberate approach to working with like-minded organisations, guided by a long-term vision of developing the game, supporting our players and delivering memorable experiences for fans. Radar Tyres' support also reinforces CSA's commitment to excellence and inclusion, strengthening our ability to drive high performance across all levels."

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For the second consecutive year, the Alliance for the Future of Tyres (AZuR) has been shortlisted for the German Award for Sustainability Projects, following its 2025 win. This renewed nomination underscores the jury’s recognition of AZuR as a pioneering force in sustainability, particularly for its dedicated efforts to advance tyre retreading as a core component of a circular economy. The 2026 award ceremony will be held under the patronage of Brigitte Zypries on 17 September in Berlin.

AZuR’s multifaceted initiative extends well beyond theoretical advocacy. Its work gained significant international attention with the Retreading Summit, held in September 2025 at KRONE Trailer in Werlte. This event convened experts from industry, politics, academia and media for two days of intensive dialogue on the potential, challenges and necessary policy frameworks for tyre modernisation, leading to the launch of concrete action plans. Furthermore, the alliance drives progress through strategic communications and direct support for flagship projects, such as the new passenger car tyre retreading facility established by Rigdon in Pfaffenhofen.

Central to AZuR’s mission is transforming public perception by demonstrating that worn tyres are valuable resources, not waste. Through ongoing awareness campaigns, it highlights the substantial ecological and economic benefits of retreaded tyres, which can be refurbished multiple times to conserve raw materials, reduce climate impact and offer cost-effective solutions. The German Award for Sustainability Projects, judged by a panel chaired by Prof Dr Claudia Kemfert of DIW Berlin, evaluates entries based on their innovation, impact and relevance to a sustainable future. AZuR’s repeated shortlisting affirms that its model for a tyre circular economy is a replicable and exemplary system with groundbreaking potential.

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Seasoned tyre industry executive Manish Maharaj has embarked on a new professional chapter, joining Balkrishna Industries Ltd (BKT Tires) in a senior leadership capacity after a distinguished 11-year tenure with Apollo Tyres Ltd.

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“I am thrilled to begin a new chapter with BKT Tires,” said Maharaj.

Maharaj’s career at Apollo spanned multiple strategic roles in one of the world’s leading tyre manufacturers, most recently serving as Regional Chief Financial Officer for South East Asia, the Middle East and Africa, and later as Business Head for South East Asia. In these capacities, he led multi-market commercial and financial operations, driving robust business performance across diverse cultural and economic environments.

At Apollo, Maharaj was responsible for charting growth strategies in fast-evolving markets, strengthening distributor partnerships, and reinforcing brand positioning across key ASEAN economies. His leadership coincided with initiatives to expand premium brand presence in Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines & South Korea and foster deeper retail engagement across the ASEAN region.

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