Dhanteras engine fires up auto market: Over 1 lakh cars delivered in 24 hours
New Delhi, Oct 19
The festive spirit roared through India’s automobile market this Dhanteras, as automakers clocked record-breaking deliveries, crossing the 100,000 mark within just 24 hours, according to industry sources.
Driven by robust festive demand and the positive impact of GST 2.0 reforms, the auto sector saw one of its strongest single-day performances in years.
According to industry estimates, these deliveries translated into sales worth Rs 8,500–10,000 crore in a single day, based on an average vehicle price of Rs 8.5–10 lakh.
Leading carmakers including Maruti Suzuki India (MSIL), Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, and Hyundai Motor India (HMIL) reported record sales this festive season, as consumer confidence hit a high gear.
Amit Kamat, Chief Commercial Officer at Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd, said that this year’s Dhanteras and Diwali deliveries were spread over two to three days, aligning with auspicious muhurat timings.
“Overall demand has been robust, and the GST 2.0 reform has further provided positive momentum. We expect to deliver over 25,000 vehicles during this period,†he noted.
Echoing the sentiment, Tarun Garg, Whole-time Director and COO of Hyundai Motor India Ltd, said the company witnessed strong customer demand, with deliveries expected to touch around 14,000 units -- nearly 20 per cent higher than last year.
The broader festive season has also fuelled consumer spending across other sectors. Gold and silver sales surged over 25 per cent in value, while overall Dhanteras trade was estimated to have crossed Rs 1 lakh crore, according to the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT).
The All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) reported strong buying activity following a sharp correction in gold prices.
“We expect festive sales to cross Rs 50,000 crore this season. Despite high gold and silver prices, consumer sentiment is upbeat, driven by early wedding purchases and strategic festive buying,†said GJC Chairman Rajesh Rokde.
From automobiles to jewellery, the Diwali season has brought a wave of optimism to India’s retail landscape.
Experts say the combination of festive spirit, economic recovery, and tax reforms under GST 2.0 has reignited consumer sentiment -- making this one of the most buoyant festive seasons in recent memory.
— IANS
Reader Comments
While the numbers look impressive, I wonder how many of these are actual retail customers vs corporate/fleet purchases. Also, with rising fuel prices, are people thinking about long-term ownership costs? Still, good to see economic activity picking up.
The Indian middle class is finally showing its spending power! This is exactly what our economy needs - consumer confidence leading to growth. Kudos to the government for GST reforms and to all the hardworking dealership staff who made this possible. 🇮🇳
As someone who works in the auto industry, I can confirm the festive rush was incredible this year. Our dealership worked extra hours to ensure deliveries during auspicious muhurats. The positive sentiment is palpable across all sectors!
Great to see such positive economic indicators! However, I hope this consumption boom is sustainable and not just pent-up demand. The real test will be if this momentum continues post-festive season.
Bought my first car this Dhanteras! 🚗 The entire experience was so special - from puja at the showroom to driving home with family. This tradition of buying vehicles during Dhanteras truly adds to the festive spirit. Shubh Deepawali to all! ✨
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