India's automobile exports surge 22% in Q1 due to record vehicle shipments; Maruti captures almost half the market.

India’s automobile exports experienced a strong 22% year-on-year increase in the April-June quarter, fueled by unprecedented passenger vehicle deliveries and solid results in two-wheelers and commercial vehicles. Total exports for all vehicle types hit 1,457,461 units in Q1 of FY26, rising from 1,192,566 units in the comparable timeframe last year. Exports of passenger vehicles reached a record 204,330 units in Q1, reflecting a 13% increase from 180,483 units during the same period last year. The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) credited this rise in passenger vehicle exports to consistent demand across various global markets, with especially robust performance noted in areas like the Middle East and Latin America. SIAM also observed that a recovery in nearby countries such as Sri Lanka and Nepal, rising demand from Japan, and increased shipments through Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like Australia further supported the overall export momentum. Maruti Suzuki, the biggest car manufacturer in India, topped passenger vehicle exports in Q1 with deliveries of 96,181 units, marking a significant rise of more than 37% from 69,962 units in the same April-June period last year. Rahul Bharti, Senior Executive Officer for Corporate Affairs at Maruti Suzuki, pointed out that the firm has topped India's passenger vehicle exports for four consecutive years, with its export share consistently rising to a record 47% in Q1 FY26. Bharti also noted that Maruti Suzuki's export figures increased by more than 37% during the quarter, in contrast to a 2% drop in the overall industry. Hyundai Motor India experienced notable growth, exporting 48,140 units in the quarter, marking a 13% rise from 42,600 units during the equivalent period last year. Exports of two-wheelers increased to 1,136,942 units in the April-June timeframe, marking a 23% growth from the 923,148 units sent in the same quarter last year.