India’s Car Exports Surge to Record High in FY25: Maruti and Hyundai at the Forefront

India’s automotive industry has reached a significant milestone in FY25, exporting a record 7.55 to 7.65 lakh passenger vehicles. This represents a 12–14% year-on-year increase compared to 6.72 lakh units shipped in FY24. The surge underscores India’s expanding stature as a key manufacturing and export hub for automobiles.

This rise comes amid increasing global recognition of Indian-built vehicles, supported by robust manufacturing capabilities, favourable government policies, and expanding global market access.

Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai Lead Export Drive

Maruti Suzuki emerged as the largest exporter, shipping 3,32,585 units overseas. The company’s export portfolio included popular models such as the 5-door Jimny and Fronx, which received strong demand in Japan—an impressive feat given Japan’s mature auto market.

Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) followed, exporting approximately 1,63,000 vehicles to markets across Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Mexico, Chile, and Peru. Together, Maruti and Hyundai contributed nearly two-thirds of India’s total passenger vehicle exports in FY25, highlighting their dominance in the space.

Manufacturers Ramp Up Export-Focused Operations

India’s growing role in the global automotive trade is prompting leading automakers to double down on export-oriented strategies. Maruti Suzuki has unveiled ambitious plans to triple its exports by 2030. To support this, the company is investing ₹45,000 crore (US$ 5.27 billion) to expand its production capacity to 4 million units annually, of which 8 lakh units are targeted for international markets.

Hyundai, on the other hand, is gearing up to scale its export volumes once its 2nd manufacturing facility in Talegaon becomes operational. This expansion reflects the brand’s commitment to strengthening its global footprint from Indian shores.

Government Push to Boost Export Share

The Indian government is actively encouraging automotive manufacturers to raise the share of exports in total production. The aim is to increase the export ratio to 25% by 2030, up from 14% recorded in FY23. This vision is aligned with India’s broader goal to become a global manufacturing powerhouse.

However, the road ahead is not without competition. China has emerged as a formidable rival in the international vehicle export market, delivering a record 5.86 million units last year. Much of this momentum has been powered by the global demand for new energy vehicles (NEVs), an area India is also looking to expand into.

Conclusion

India’s record-breaking car export figures in FY25 signal a shift in global automotive trade dynamics. As manufacturers increase investment and ramp up production capacity, India appears well-positioned to become a strategic export hub in the coming decade.

Yet, success will hinge on sustained innovation, investment in EV infrastructure, and strategic global partnerships. The competition is intensifying—but so is India’s resolve to drive ahead on the global map.

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