Three-Wheeler Retail Sales Edge Higher As Passenger And Goods Carriers Drive Growth

Three-wheeler retail sales increased 3.56 per cent year-on-year to 1.12 lakh units in May, according to FADA retail registration data, rising from 1.08 lakh units in the previous year and posting a 1.29 per cent month-on-month increase from April. Unlike larger vehicle segments, three-wheelers recorded positive sequential growth during the month.

Performance varied significantly across sub-segments. Passenger three-wheelers grew 25.8 per cent year-on-year to 60,643 units while goods carriers increased 25.23 per cent to 13,482 units, suggesting continued demand for intra-city transport and small cargo movement. In contrast, passenger e-rickshaws fell 26.61 per cent to 29,812 units, while cargo e-rickshaws declined 5.95 per cent.

The segment remained the most electrified among mainstream categories. Electric powertrains accounted for 64.45 per cent of total sales, up from 61.46 per cent last year. CNG/LPG-powered vehicles accounted for 22.08 per cent, while diesel accounted for 13.04 per cent.

Rural demand remained a key support factor, accounting for 56.9 per cent of total three-wheeler retail activity compared with 43.1 percent for urban markets. Rural sales increased 8.67 per cent year-on-year while urban markets declined 2.47 per cent.

Bajaj Auto remained the segment leader with 39,096 units and a 35.06 per cent market share. Mahindra entities strengthened their combined presence, while Piaggio retailed 7,749 units. The market structure continues to remain fragmented, with “others including EV” accounting for more than one-third of total sales.