Tata Motors Speeds Past Rivals to Seize India’s Second Largest PV Spot, Driven by SUV & EV Surge
The battle for the soul of the Indian passenger vehicle (PV) market has just delivered a stunning verdict: Tata Motors is now the nation’s second-largest carmaker. Powered by a surging demand for its SUVs and a commanding lead in the electric vehicle (EV) revolution, the Indian auto major has decisively outpaced traditional contenders, Hyundai Motor India and Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M).
According to registration data for September 2025, Tata Motors clocked 40,594 units, securing the coveted No. 2 rank. This feat represents more than a jump in sales; it signals a fundamental shift in consumer trust and product strategy.
The Electric Vehicle Masterstroke
Tata Motors’ success story is deeply intertwined with its electric offensive. While the overall EV market is exploding—nearly doubling its registrations in September—Tata has become the undisputed champion. Its Nexon EV, Tiago EV, and the increasingly popular Punch EV are not just adding to the tally; they’re dominating it.
With an estimated 70% share of the mass-market EV space, Tata Motors is essentially driving India’s electrification. This leadership provides an unassailable advantage over rivals like Mahindra, which is yet to roll out its core mass-market EV models, and Hyundai, whose premium EV offerings remain niche.
The SUV Foundation
While EVs are the future, Tata’s present is firmly rooted in its powerful SUV lineup. Models like the Nexon, Punch, and the flagship Harrier models have cemented the company’s reputation for modern design and superior safety. This core strength, combined with the momentum from its electric portfolio, created a powerful tailwind that propelled the brand past its immediate competition.
Hyundai and M&M: The New Battleground
The market movement paints a clear picture of the shifting dynamics:
- Mahindra, despite strong performance from its marquee SUVs like the Scorpio-N and XUV700, settled into the third position with 37,015 units.
- Hyundai, a long-time occupant of the No. 2 spot, dropped to fourth with 35,443 units, highlighting the pressure it faces in the hyper-competitive SUV segment.
For now, the focus shifts to how these global and domestic rivals will respond to Tata’s aggressive push, especially as the industry heads into a crucial period following recent GST rate adjustments and the peak festive season demand.
Tata Motors isn’t just selling cars; it’s capturing the imagination of the Indian buyer by linking safety, style, and sustainability. The question now isn’t if an Indian brand can compete, but how long it will take before it poses a serious challenge to the top spot.
