Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, May 27: In a major boost to India’s automobile sector, Maruti Suzuki and Honda Cars India have witnessed a sharp surge in exports to Japan, underscoring the rising global acceptance of India-made vehicles.

According to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), car exports from India to Japan reached $616.45 million in the first nine months of FY 2024-25, nearly tripling the $220.62 million recorded in the entire previous fiscal.

Leading the charge is Maruti Suzuki with its popular off-roader SUV, the Jimny. Over 38,000 units of the five-door model have already been exported this fiscal, compared to 22,000 units in 2023-24. Japan is now among the top markets for the Jimny, alongside Mexico, Australia, and South Africa. The Gujarat plant also continues to export the Fronx SUV to Japan via Pipavav Port.

Honda Cars India has also recorded impressive numbers, exporting 45,167 units of the Elevate SUV — sold in Japan as the Honda WR-V. This is double the number sold domestically. The car, launched in Japan this March, marks Honda India’s first model to be sold in its parent company’s home market.

In the two-wheeler space, Yamaha India is eyeing exports of its premium R15 bike to Japan, leveraging India’s cost-effective manufacturing advantage.

India’s overall car exports rose 15% to 7.7 lac units in FY23, outpacing domestic sales growth. Compact SUVs now make up over 25% of exports, as global demand for India-manufactured models continues to soar.