Toyota’s October sales decline, but Innova continues its growth

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) recently announced their October sales numbers which show a 6.06 per cent decline in domestic sales. Despite this negative movement, the Innova continues to be the volume driver for the company.

The carmaker sold 11,651 vehicles in India last month as against 12,403 units in October 2015. The export numbers were also down as 974 units of the Etios series of cars were sold in October 2016 as compared to 1,198 units in the same month last year. The cumulative sales numbers stood at 12,625 units.

Interestingly, the festive period of September and October was positive for the sales of the Innova. Though the company has not given out specific numbers, they say the MPV's sales have grown by 45 per cent from May to October this year. This is in comparison to the sales figures in the corresponding period in 2015. Currently, the Innova Crysta has one month waiting period and continues to be the highest revenue generating model for the manufacturer.

N. Raja, Director and Sr. Vice President, Sales and Marketing, TKM, said, "Sale in the festive months of September and October put together has helped us clear most of our inventory in the plant as well as at our dealerships. We have seen a huge pull from the market in the last two months and especially for the Innova Crysta that has been doing phenomenally well ever since its launch in May 2016."

The production at Toyota's manufacturing facility was lower than the typical output due to holidays. The company attributes this to have affected last month's sales numbers. Nevertheless, TKM has resumed the usual manufacturing at its facility and is preparing for the launch of the new-gen Fortuner. The updated SUV will be launched for the Indian market on November 7.