Diwali 2023 Sees 12% Rise In Two-Wheeler Sales In Top Indian Cities

Festive cheer drives uptick in registrations across metros

• Hero and Honda dominate with increased dispatches of entry-level models
• Bajaj Pulsar sees strongest growth in years boosted by new variant launches
• Electric two-wheelers notch higher volumes aligned to greater awareness

The Diwali season this year has brought glad tidings for two-wheeler manufacturers in India’s biggest cities, with registration figures for October 2023 showing a 12% increase compared to the same festive period in 2022. While all metro cities saw an uptick, growth was strongest in Delhi and Mumbai. Here's an overview of the key highlights:

Hero MotoCorp &Honda Lead Charge

Hero’s most popular 100cc to 125cc models, like the Hero Splendor and HF Deluxe, saw major jumps in registrations this Diwali season versus last year. Honda too witnessed healthy order bookings for its Shine and CD110 Dream commuters. Higher sales of entry-level bikes and scooters indicate a growth in first-time buyers thanks to increased affordability.

Bajaj Pulsar Builds Momentum

Bajaj Auto registered its highest growth in Pulsar125 volumes since 2020, as new 125cc and 150cc variants launched over the past year gain traction. The Pulsar N250, in both single-disc and twin-disc versions, has been a particular success story this festive season.

Electric Scooter Adoption Rises

Greater awareness among buyers in metro cities, coupled with attractive purchase incentives, led to a visible step-up in electric two-wheeler sales this Diwali compared to 2022. Okinawa and Ola Electric nearly doubled their registration counts, while Ather Energy saw a 75% expansion in invoice figures.

Based on robust festive numbers from major urban centers, two-wheeler makers will be optimistic of the sales momentum sustaining post-Diwali as well. If rural demand also recovers, the next few quarters could see the industry getting back to growth trajectory