FADING STARS IN THE INDIAN AUTO INDUSTRY

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.