Bajaj Automobiles’ sales decreased by 10pc to 1,053,337 units in Q2 FY2021 (June-Sept) from the prior-year quarter. The number of vehicles sold rose from the preceding quarter by 137.71pc. The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Indian economy had peaked in Q1FY2021.
In the first six months of the fiscal year, sales declined by 38.18pc to 1,496,440 units. The company sold 348,561 units of the motorcycle Pulsar, its highest ever quarterly tally. With the number of new cases reaching new highs every day in the period, most Indians opted for personal vehicles. As the country gradually resumed activities and dealerships opened, a pent up demand for two-wheelers had supported many producers in Q2FY2021, including Bajaj. The company’s net profit, however, declined by 19pc in the quarter to Rs11,380mn ($154.59mn) compared to Q2FY2020.
Meanwhile, Ashok Leyland, known for its commercial vehicle production, has ramped up operations with its output expected to reach 70-75pc of pre-COVID-19 levels, state media reports. The company recently launched two models of intermediate commercial vehicles -Boss LE and LX trucks, which it expects to drives sales in the coming days.
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