Auto sales fell 30 per cent in April compared with the previous month because of the second wave of the coronavirus that led to states imposing restrictions.

“Supply chain related production challenges continue with the lockdown restrictions in many parts of the country. The demand has been clearly impacted by the second wave of Covid-19, both in terms of low consumer sentiments and closure of dealerships due to lockdown restrictions,” Rajesh Menon, director-general of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (Siam), said.

There were no passenger vehicle sales in April 2020 because of the coronavirus-led nationwide lockdown.

Passenger vehicle sales (wholesale) in India declined 10 per cent to 2,61,633 units in April 2021 compared with March 2021 as the Covid-19-led restrictions impacted demand, Siam said. Passenger vehicle sales in March 2021 stood at 2,90,939 units.

Two-wheeler dispatches to dealers declined 33 per cent to 9,95,097 units last month compared with 14,96,806 units in March.

Motorcycle sales too saw a dip of 33 per cent to 6,67,841 units against 9,93,996 in March this year. Scooter sales fell 34 per cent to 3,00,462 units from 4,57,677 units in March.

Three-wheeler sales also declined 57 per cent to 13,728 units compared with 31,930 units in March this year.

Vehicle sales across categories declined 30 per cent to 12,70,458 units last month against 18,19,682 units in March.

Menon said amid the restrictions in manufacturing the industry has taken measures to boost the supply of oxygen by providing oxygen generating plants, concentrators, cylinders and other facilities.