Auto Sector's Domestic Sales Still At Historic Lows, Exports Down

The pandemic has now put a major proportion of jobs dependent on the auto sector in jeopardy

NEW DELHI/MUMBAI: The sales of India's Covid-19-battered automobile companies in May remained at historic low levels, as factories came back to life and dealerships opened up, but customers stayed away.

The pandemic has not only devastated domestic retail sales but has now put a major proportion of jobs dependent on the sector in jeopardy.

However, the month saw gradual opening-up of factories and dealerships.

In May, automobile major Maruti Suzuki India posted total sales of 18,539 units which included 13,865 units in the domestic market and sales of 23 units to other OEMs.

The company resumed its manufacturing operations post lockdown strictly in accordance with the government regulations and guidelines, from May 12 at its Manesar facility and from May 18 at its Gurugram facility, the company said in a statement.

Production also resumed at Suzuki Motor Gujarat Pvt Ltd (SMG) from May 25. SMG manufactures cars on a contract basis for Maruti Suzuki.

As per the statement, the company exported 4,651 units following resumption of port operations at Mundra and Mumbai ports, ensuring that all guidelines for safety were followed.

Likewise, the company's showrooms opened in accordance with the Centre and state guidelines in a graded manner across different cities, the statement said.

The remaining showrooms would open in due course if they are not in containment zones or if not specifically restricted by any local guidelines.