Indian automakers ramp up output and dealer stock ahead of festive buying surge

As India enters its peak festive buying window, major car makers are scaling production and dealer inventories to satisfy robust consumer demand. Maruti Suzuki India disclosed a backlog of 220,000 bookings, equivalent to about 16 days of stock, and has commissioned two additional production lines that will add 500,000 units of capacity by year-end. Hyundai Motor India said it has built inventory covering four to five weeks across its dealer network to ensure timely deliveries.

Mahindra & Mahindra increased its utility-vehicle and electric-vehicle manufacturing capacity to 68,000 units monthly, aiming to reduce waiting periods. Executives from each firm highlighted the festive season’s importance for sales and outlined steps to balance bookings with supply. The coordinated push seeks to convert strong bookings into retail sales throughout the Navratri, Dussehra, Dhanteras and Diwali period.