Fames and names go hand – in – hand with the Indian auto
industry where sentiments and public perceptions plays a very important role in
the sales numbers of a particular model. If we are to see the sales numbers in
the last 12 months, then we can clearly demarcate the rising stars from the
fading ones. Let’s look at some of the fading stars or those models which are
on a declining trend in the popularity – cum – sales trend-line.
1.
NANO
No other model in our country ever evoked more interest than Nano. Yet,
the depressing trend in the sales numbers is a cause of concern for Tata
Motors.
From a high of 10475 in March this model is seeing numbers like 1504 in
Jan’13 & Feb’13. Quite depressing indeed for a model that burst into the
scene with a lot of promise both for the company and also for the country.
2.
SX4
SX4 is the first model that Maruti
introduced in the above 9 lakh segment. A
bold and desperate move to stay in the above middle class C segment. But the
numbers indicate that the move has long lost its lustre.
From 2000 numbers in Jan’12 &
Feb’12, it has come down to 200 in Feb’13. Quite sad indeed!
3.
Etios LIVA
Toyota had no presence in the
small car segment that comprises of close to 60% of the entire industry. Then came
Etios LIVA with a lot of promise and long queue of bookings. 1 year back, this
model was raking in numbers to the tune of 4000 a month. This year, it has come
down to 1600 per month. Looks like the company needs to do something really
afresh in order to infuse some enthusiasm in this model.
4.
Sunny
Undoubtedly the most spacious
sedan this country has ever seen. Nissan brought its killer product from its
global stable to win over this Indian market that is perceived to value space a
lot. Initial numbers suggested the accuracy of their strategy. But in a year’s
time, the numbers has come down from
4000 a month to 1100.
There are other models as well that are fast losing their
grounds to the new models and more aggressive competitors. E.g. Chevrolet
Spark, Nissan Micra, Chevrolet Cruze, Hyundai Accent, Fiat Punto, Skoda Fabia, Ford
Fiesta new, Toyota Corolla, Fiat Linea, Tata Venture and Chevrolet Optra. For all
these models, the respective companies have to think fast or else these names
will soon become history in this fast changing automobile industry.
