Maruti Suzuki aims to sell 6 lakh CNG cars in FY25, betting big on cleaner fuels
Maruti Suzuki, a dominant player in the Indian automotive market, is doubling down on its commitment to cleaner fuels, particularly Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). With emission norms tightening for petrol and diesel vehicles, Maruti Suzuki sees an opportune moment to capitalize on the growing demand for eco-friendly alternatives.
- A Growing Market:
- In FY24, Maruti Suzuki witnessed robust sales of CNG passenger vehicles, totaling 4.8 lakh units. This marked a significant contribution to the company’s overall sales and underscored the increasing popularity of CNG-powered cars in India.
- Market Leadership:
- Despite fierce competition from rivals like Hyundai and Tata Motors, Maruti Suzuki maintained its dominance in the CNG segment, commanding an impressive 73% market share. This speaks volumes about the brand’s credibility and trust among consumers.
- Environmental Focus:
- Maruti Suzuki’s strategy of offering factory-fitted CNG kits in conjunction with conventional petrol engines positions its vehicles as environmentally friendly options. Not only do these cars adhere to stringent emission standards, but they also promise better fuel efficiency and lower running costs.
- Ambitious Targets:
- Buoyed by the success of its CNG offerings, Maruti Suzuki is setting ambitious targets for FY25. The company aims to ramp up CNG car sales to six lakh units, reflecting its confidence in the growing demand for cleaner fuel alternatives.
- Hybrid Strategy:
- While Maruti Suzuki’s focus on CNG is clear, the company remains cautious about its hybrid vehicle strategy. Chairman RC Bhargava highlights the importance of government policies, particularly concerning GST rates on hybrids. The company is closely monitoring developments before charting its course in the hybrid segment.
In a statement, RC Bhargava emphasized the significance of government policies in shaping consumer demand for hybrid vehicles. The uncertainty surrounding GST rates underscores the challenges and complexities facing the automotive industry as it navigates towards a greener future.
Maruti Suzuki’s proactive approach towards cleaner fuels aligns with global trends towards sustainability and environmental consciousness. By prioritizing CNG vehicles and monitoring policy shifts, the company demonstrates its commitment to driving positive change in the automotive landscape while meeting evolving consumer preferences.
