India’s automobile sector achieved a historic milestone in September 2025, with exports reaching their highest-ever levels. According to the latest 2025 growth report, Indian automakers shipped over 6 million vehicles abroad in the first nine months of the year, setting the stage for a record-breaking annual performance.
This surge highlights India’s growing reputation as a global hub for affordable, reliable, and fuel-efficient cars. With strong demand from Africa, Latin America, and South-East Asia, Indian manufacturers are securing their place in the global auto supply chain.
Key Highlights from the 2025 Growth Report
The government’s latest figures reveal several important trends in Indian automobile exports:
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Total exports crossed 6 million units by September 2025.
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Passenger vehicles accounted for 55% of shipments, led by compact cars and SUVs.
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Two-wheelers remained strong, making up 35% of exports, especially to Africa.
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Commercial vehicles saw steady demand in South-East Asia and the Middle East.
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EV exports surged by 120% year-on-year, driven by Tata, Mahindra, and Ola Electric.
These numbers underline the sector’s resilience despite global economic challenges.
Leading Export Destinations
India’s automobile exports are expanding across continents, with notable state-wise and global demand in 2025:
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Africa – Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya are top importers of two-wheelers and small cars.
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Latin America – Mexico, Chile, and Colombia show rising demand for compact SUVs.
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South-East Asia – Indonesia, Philippines, and Vietnam are key markets for both cars and EVs.
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Middle East – UAE and Saudi Arabia remain strong buyers of commercial vehicles.
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Europe – EV exports to the UK and Germany are gaining momentum.
This diversification ensures India is not overly reliant on any one region.
Top Exported Models in 2025
The 2025 growth report highlights several models dominating India’s export basket:
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Passenger Cars: Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Hyundai i20, Kia Seltos, and Tata Punch.
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SUVs: Mahindra Scorpio N, Hyundai Creta, and Maruti Grand Vitara.
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Two-Wheelers: Bajaj Pulsar, TVS Apache, and Hero Splendor.
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EVs: Tata Nexon EV, Mahindra XUV400, and Ola S1 (two-wheeler EV).
Compact cars and SUVs remain the backbone of exports, while EVs are emerging as the fastest-growing category.
Why India’s Auto Exports Are Rising
Several factors explain why India’s auto exports are booming in September 2025:
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Cost competitiveness – Indian cars are more affordable compared to global competitors.
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Fuel efficiency focus – Export models align with demand for low-emission, fuel-efficient vehicles.
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Strong manufacturing base – Plants in Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra are producing at record capacity.
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Government incentives – Production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes and export subsidies boost competitiveness.
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Global EV demand – India’s entry into EV exports matches rising global sustainability goals.
Challenges Ahead
While the record growth is encouraging, the 2025 growth report also highlights challenges:
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Logistics costs remain high due to global shipping disruptions.
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Competition from China, Thailand, and South Korea in compact SUV and EV segments.
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Currency fluctuations impacting export profitability.
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Dependence on specific markets like Africa, which can be volatile.
Despite these hurdles, India is well-placed to maintain strong growth in the near future.
Impact on Indian Economy
The surge in auto exports benefits India beyond the automobile sector:
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Higher foreign exchange earnings strengthen the rupee.
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Job creation in manufacturing, logistics, and R&D.
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Boost to ancillary industries such as steel, rubber, and electronics.
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Global recognition of India as a competitive auto hub, attracting more foreign investment.
Automobile exports now contribute nearly 12% of India’s total merchandise exports, highlighting the industry’s strategic importance.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, India’s auto export performance is expected to stay strong through 2026 and beyond:
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EV exports will double again as Tata, Mahindra, and Ola expand global networks.
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Premium SUV exports will rise with launches like the Mahindra Thar EV and Tata Harrier EV.
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Government targets aim to make India one of the top three global auto exporters by 2030.
This trajectory positions India as both a domestic and international automotive powerhouse.
FAQs
How many vehicles did India export in 2025?
By September 2025, India exported over 6 million vehicles, the highest in its history.
Which Indian cars are most exported in 2025?
Top exported cars include Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Hyundai i20, Kia Seltos, and Tata Punch.
What is driving India’s auto export growth?
Key drivers include affordability, fuel efficiency, government incentives, and rising EV demand.
Which countries import most Indian vehicles?
Nigeria, Mexico, South Africa, Indonesia, and the UAE are among the top buyers.
Will India’s auto exports continue growing?
Yes, with EV adoption and global demand for affordable cars, exports are expected to rise further in 2026.
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