Automakers reported robust Dhanteras vehicle deliveries, with volumes surging nearly 20% year-on-year, driven by GST reforms, strategic price cuts, and an extended two-day auspicious buying window.
Maruti Suzuki expects to deliver a record 51,000 vehicles over the two-day Dhanteras period, up from 41,500 units last year. “Since it’s a Saturday, some customers were hesitant to buy iron metal. We have already completed 38,500 deliveries and expect to close the day at 41,000. Another 10,000 deliveries are likely on Sunday, which would make it our highest ever Dhanteras,” said Partho Banerjee, senior executive officer, marketing & sales, Maruti Suzuki.
Hyundai Motor India, the second-largest passenger vehicle maker, is also witnessing strong traction with sales expected to touch 14,000.
“This year, Dhanteras deliveries are spread across multiple days because of it being a Saturday. We are witnessing strong customer demand, with deliveries expected to be around 14,000 units, approximately 20% higher than last year. The positive momentum is driven by the festive spirit, a buoyant market environment and the encouraging impact of GST reforms,” said Tarun Garg, whole-time director & COO, Hyundai Motor India.
The festive momentum began picking up from September 22, following the rollout of GST rate cuts and onset of the Navratri period. This demand uptick translated into a 4.4% year-on-year increase in passenger vehicle wholesales in September, surpassing earlier industry expectations of 1–2% annual growth.
Maruti Suzuki alone has received 4.5 lakh bookings since announcing festive price cuts, including 1 lakh for entry-level small cars. The company’s retail sales have risen to 3.25 lakh units, more than 50% higher compared to the same period last year.
With demand peaking, automakers said showrooms will remain open late into the night, and production facilities are operating over the weekend to meet the surge in deliveries.