Strict lockdowns across the majority of states in India hampered the production routines of major automakers, due to which May 2021 saw a steep decline in wholesale dispatches to dealers across segments.
According to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), the overall sales stood at 442,013 units in May 2021, excluding commercial vehicle sales, a decline of 78% compared to 2,004,137 units in May 2019.
| Segment | May-19 | May-20 | May-21 |
| Passenger Vehicles | 2,26,975 | 33,546 | 88,045 |
| Three Wheelers | 51,650 | 2437 | 125 |
| Two Wheelers | 1725204 | 279682 | 352717 |
| Grand Total | 2004137 | 315638 | 442013 |
Source: SIAM
It is noted that since both May 2020 and May 2021 were abnormal months because of the COVID-19 situation and lockdowns, a comparison of these two months holds no meaning. However, a comparison of May 2021 sales with May 2019, which was a normal year, presents a realistic picture.
In terms of the segment, passenger vehicles stood at 88,045 units, two-wheelers at 352,717 units and three-wheelers at just 1,251 units.
Rajesh Menon, Director General, SIAM said, the Indian automobile industry stands committed to supporting the Government in its battle against the COVID-19 pandemic through various initiatives to augment the availability of oxygen and support health care infrastructure and local communities. OEMs have also taken up large scale vaccination of their employees, family members and dealer partners. Many members had shut down their manufacturing plants to divert oxygen from industrial use for medical purposes.