Thanks to a surge in sales of the recently launched Innova Crysta, Toyota Kirloskar Motor has reported sales of 13,502 units in the domestic market, thereby registering 29% growth over its domestic sales in the corresponding period last year (June 2015: 10,464).  

The Bengaluru-based manufacturer also exported 1,352 units of the Etios series last month, down 29% (June 2015: 1,917).

Meanwhile, the Camry sedan – particularly the Camry Hybrid – retains its popularity among buyers. In June, TKM says the Camry has clocked more than 30% growth year on year. The Etios model registered 4% growth over June 2015 sales.

Commenting on the monthly sales, N Raja, director and senior VP (Sales & Marketing), TKM, said, “The Innova Crysta has received an overwhelming response from customers and it now has a waiting period of 2 to 3 months.”

Despite the ongoing diesel debate in the country, TKM has reposed its faith in the fuel and on June 23, its joint venture company Toyota Industries Engine India opened a new engine production plant in Bengaluru to manufacture high-performance Global Diesel (GD) engines – 1GD-FTV 2.8-litre and 2GD-FTV – 2.4-litre engines for fitment in the Innova Crysta. Toyota claims these engines are more fuel efficient (+13%) and more powerful too (+47%).

TKM, which is among the OEMs badly impacted by the ban on registration of vehicles with 2000cc and above diesel engines in Delhi-NCR, is looking forward to July 11 which is when the apex court is slated to debate the diesel decision. On June 29, the Supreme Court had said that it is open to lifting the ban, subject to the levy of a one-time environment cess.