Could India's Two-Wheeler Volumes Surge 9.5% in December 2025? FY26 Growth Expected at 6-9%
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Jan 21 (NationPress) The two-wheeler sector in India experienced a remarkable increase of 9.5% year-on-year in December 2025, fueled by year-end demand, policy-driven affordability enhancements, and improving macroeconomic conditions, according to a report released on Wednesday.
As per the ratings agency ICRA, domestic two-wheeler volumes are anticipated to see a growth of 6-9% year-on-year in FY26, thanks to a resurgence in replacement demand, urban consumption, and stable rural income levels.
The agency highlighted that the recovery in urban discretionary spending combined with steady rural income, bolstered by a normal monsoon and sustained government spending, are significant driving factors.
Retail volumes notably increased by 9.5% during the month, largely due to year-end discounts and pre-purchases by consumers anticipating price hikes in January 2026.
Enhanced affordability, improved financing options, and higher showroom traffic contributed to this retail momentum, particularly in the entry-level motorcycle and scooter segments, as noted in the report.
Electric two-wheeler sales also saw a 32.8% year-on-year growth, with retail volumes hitting 97,744 units. However, the penetration of electric two-wheelers remained consistent at about 6-7% during the first nine months of FY2026, indicating a gradual shift in consumer preferences and the readiness of infrastructure.
Wholesale volumes surged by 38% year-on-year, reaching approximately 1.5 million units in December, driven by a low base and inventory replenishment ahead of the upcoming calendar year, according to the report.
On a cumulative basis, wholesale volumes grew by 4.8% during the first nine months of FY2026 (April-December), signifying a slow recovery throughout the fiscal year despite occasional demand weaknesses.
Exports played a crucial role in the growth observed in December, with monthly volumes rising by 25.2% year-on-year, while cumulative industry exports increased by 24.1% during the first nine months of FY2026. This strong performance was aided by a low base effect and improving demand in key international markets.
While December 2025 showed a sharp year-on-year recovery, the agency forecasts a broader policy-supported resurgence in FY26, with exports and a gradual normalization of domestic demand being pivotal.