While Oct may have revved up the charts, Nov's performance keeps Gujarat's auto market cruising steadily, with strong sentiment setting the pace for a promising year-end finish. Passenger vehicle sales in Gujarat in Nov were recorded at 24,602 units, demonstrating the market's steady momentum even as a high-base effect from last year made for a sharp year-on-year comparison.
While the numbers reflect a 22.4% dip compared to Nov 2023, they remain impressive considering last year's Diwali bonanza, which turbocharged sales to record levels. This year's Nov performance follows an Oct high, fuelled by Navratri-Dussehra and Dhanteras-Diwali celebrations, where Gujarat achieved a peak in monthly vehicle sales of 2.94 lakh units.
Pranav Shah, chairman of the Gujarat chapter of the Federation of Automobile Dealers' Association (FADA), highlighted the unique factors at play. "Oct was driven by festivities, heavy discounts, and ample dealer stock, encouraging buyers to make early purchases. Even with this pull-forward effect, Nov's numbers reflect a healthy market sentiment and consistent demand," he said.
Dealers echoed this optimism, noting that Nov recorded the second-highest monthly vehicle sales of the year, underscoring the market's resilience. The trends reveal a tale of two markets - urban and rural Gujarat.
In cities like Ahmedabad, sales slowed as the post-festive buzz waned. However, rural areas kept the wheels turning, with strong agricultural income boosting demand for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers. "Agricultural earnings have played a big role in sustaining rural sales, even as urban areas saw a natural post-Oct adjustment," said an RTO official.
Two-wheelers, too, held their ground, with 1.47 lakh units sold in Nov - a modest year-on-year dip of just 3.6%. Dealers were quick to point out that mobility remains a priority for buyers, ensuring continued demand across segments.
While Oct may have revved up the charts, Nov's performance keeps Gujarat's auto market cruising steadily, with strong sentiment setting the pace for a promising year-end finish.
