How has Auto Expo 2023 been so far? Analyst lists takeaway – check key highlights of the event

India’s Auto Expo 2023 returned after three years with many new models, especially in hybrid and electric vehicles. Amid this, the analyst, who attended the ongoing event, believes that the stiff competition within the auto companies is evident and also gives numerous choices to consumers.

“Competitive intensity has increased significantly and maintaining/ gaining market-share would be challenging. The choice of products for customers is expected to be more complicated as new launches come with more variants and price overlaps,” Vijay Sarthy TS, Analyst at Anand Rathi said.

The analyst prefers passenger vehicles (PVs) over two-wheelers (2Ws), while commercial vehicles (CVs) are still the best pick to navigate the medium term regulatory and tech disruptions.

The 16th edition of Auto Expo India, 2023, has been held at Greater Noida, NCR (national capital region). India’s flagship automobile show returned, with OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) showcasing coming models, exciting concepts and future technologies.

Adding to the existing 84 brands (SUVs 44, PCs 33, MUVs 7) and 694 variants (381 SUVs, 184 hatchbacks, 94 sedans, 35 MUVs) in passenger vehicles, the Auto Expo 2023 displayed 20 new models, which would add 150 variants in the near term.

The SUV segment continued to see the most model launches, refreshes and fuel options, while the hatchback and sedan segments were mostly limited to model refreshes and alternative fuel options on existing ICE (Internal Combustion Engines) platforms.

Auto Expo 2023 Key Highlights

SUVs and EVs are the dominant theme. Continuing from the last Auto Expo show, most OEMs had either new launches or concepts in these two themes.

Maruti bridging the gap. The market leader launched Fronx and Jimny in SUVs, and showcased its full electric SUV ‘EVX’, which would be launched at Auto Expo 2025.

Hyundai charging up the Indian PV space. Hyundai showcased its much-awaited Ioniq series EVs, along with various fuel-option vehicles.

Toyota expanding its portfolio. Toyota showcased the Innova Hycross in MUVs alongside its Land Cruiser series.

Tata adding to its EV/ICE range. Tata showcased the much-awaited Sierra EV concept, an ICE version of the Curvv concept, the highly anticipated Harrier electric SUV alongside Punch EV and Altroz racer.

KIA beefing up its presence. KIA showcased the Carnival KA4, along with its all-electric concept, EV9.

MG back with refreshes. MG refreshed its Hector and Hector Plus brands with a much-needed refresh and latest features.

Other interesting launches. Makers such as BYD, Lexus and others showcased a few models.