India’s automobile industry recorded its highest-ever sales for the month of May, driven by strong demand across passenger vehicles, two-wheelers and three-wheelers, according to data released by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) on Monday.
Domestic passenger vehicle sales rose 27.3 per cent year-on-year to a record 4,38,854 units in May 2026, compared to 3,44,656 units in the corresponding month last year.
The two-wheeler segment also registered robust growth, with sales increasing 14.8 per cent to 19,02,209 units, while three-wheeler sales climbed 31.1 per cent to 70,720 units during the month.
SIAM Director General Rajesh Menon said all three major vehicle segments achieved their highest-ever sales for the month of May.
He attributed the strong growth partly to the lower base of May 2025 and the positive impact of reduced GST rates and easier financing options, which have supported vehicle demand across categories.
The strong wholesale performance follows robust retail sales recorded during the month. Earlier, the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) reported that passenger vehicle retail sales crossed the 4 lakh mark for the first time, rising 23.25 per cent year-on-year to 4,02,591 units.
The two-wheeler segment delivered its best-ever May sales performance, led by strong demand for scooters. Scooter sales increased 27.4 per cent to 7,39,667 units, while motorcycle sales rose 7.2 per cent to 11,13,973 units. Moped sales also recorded strong growth of 30.3 per cent, reaching 48,569 units.
Passenger vehicles continued to benefit from improving affordability, positive consumer sentiment and sustained demand across segments, helping the industry achieve a new monthly record for May sales.
The three-wheeler segment maintained its growth momentum, with passenger carrier sales rising 30 per cent to 57,649 units. Goods carrier sales registered a stronger growth of 35.3 per cent, reaching 11,802 units.
Electric three-wheelers also posted healthy growth during the month. E-rickshaw sales increased 38.9 per cent to 1,000 units, while e-cart sales rose 81.8 per cent to 269 units, reflecting growing adoption of electric mobility solutions.
-IANS
