The Road Ahead

The Indian automotive market turbocharged itself in 2024, smashing records with 26.1 million vehicle sales—a 9% growth over 2023, eclipsing the pre-Covid peak of 25.4 million in 2018! Here’s the numbers-driven pitstop tour. Maruti Suzuki: Still the king of the road, clocking a jaw-dropping 1.79 million units sold, its best year ever. December alone saw 252,692 units, thanks to festive vibes and lean inventory. Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M): Leading the UV segment with 41,424 sales in December (18% YoY growth), M&M’s annual total rode high on the tractor boom too. Tata Motors: Electrified the market with 1.95 million EVs sold, a 30% rise YoY, while total December sales hit 44,230 units. Toyota: Ramped up by 16.4% YoY in December, selling 24,887 units, proving steady demand for its lineup. MG Motor India surged with 55% YoY growth, recording 7,516 units in December, an innovative pricing strategy did help.

The good news is that electric vehicle adoption has hit new heights, with 2.4% market penetration in 2024. Hyundai struggled, slipping by 1.3% YoY (42,208 units in December). Honda Cars India also dropped 29% YoY, managing only 5,603 units, while Nissan also found itself in the slow lane.

What’s Next?
The road ahead looks bumpy, with experts predicting slower growth in 2025 due to economic uncertainties. But with innovation, sustainability, and EV fever driving the industry, the future promises another exciting lap in India’s auto race. 2025 is more than just about new models—it’s about new ways of driving and owning vehicles. Subscription models, connected car ecosystems, and the emergence of autonomous features in premium vehicles will reshape the driving experience. The government’s focus on EV infrastructure, coupled with rising environmental consciousness, hints at a greener future.

• Tata Motors EV party is over, with all the mainstream guys dropping their EV canons. This is a snapshot of the most anticipated EVs in 2025:
• Maruti Suzuki e Vitara: Launching in March 2025, this SUV will target a premium EV segment.
• Hyundai Creta EV: Expected in January 2025, this will feature a 45kWh battery with a competitive range.
• Tata Harrier EV: Scheduled for March, it will offer 2WD and 4WD options with a range of over 500 km.
• Mahindra BE 6e: Mahindra’s sleek electric SUV will mark its road presence and looks like it will be the showstopper.
• Skoda Enyaq: This luxury SUV is anticipated in early 2025 with a price of J55 lakh.
• Mercedes-Benz EQG: A high-end electric G-Class, which can do 360 degree turn
• Volkswagen ID.4: Another premium SUV is expected in 2025 at J55 lakh.
• Kia Carens EV: A unique electric MPV launching in April 2025 with an estimated price of J20 lakh.
• Toyota Urban Cruiser EV: This rebadged Maruti e Vitara, which is launching mid-year.

So, there are plenty of EVs to choose from; as we dive into 2025, one thing is clear—the road ahead is teeming with possibilities. At TopGear India, we are thrilled to continue this journey with you, exploring the trends, technology, and stories that define the pulse of the auto industry.