Local auto industry marks the beginning of new fiscal year 2019-20 with a 50% reduction in sales. The ongoing massive depreciation of Pak Rupee against the US Dollar and imposition of additional duties and taxes have pushed the prices of automobiles beyond the reach of masses.
The picture is getting worse every passing month as the industry is suffering from heavy losses despite several price revisions during the past few months. Car prices in Pakistan during the last 18 months have been revised up to 10 times with prices going up by 39% on average.
Related: Car Price Comparison: December 2017 vs July 2019
However when we compare the stats from July 2018, with that of July 2019, the stats are quite horrifying.
1300cc & above cars
The 1300cc & above segment has suffered a massive blow with sales reducing by -63%.
| Car(s) | July 2018 | July 2019 | Difference |
| Honda Civic & City | 4609 | 1452 | -68.4% |
| Suzuki Swift | 484 | 174 | -65% |
| Toyota Corolla | 4566 | 1981 | -56.6% |
| Total | 9659 | 3607 | -62.6% |
1000cc cars
The segment which comprise of two Suzuki hatchbacks, took a -53% dip too. Keep in mind the Cultus and Wagon R are currently the bestselling cars in Pak Suzuki’s lineup. While Cultus suffered from -27% decline, WagonR saw an almost -70% reduction in sales.
| Car | July 2018 | July 2019 | Difference |
| Cultus | 1661 | 1280 | -27.27% |
| WagonR | 2772 | 843 | -69.5% |
| Total | 4433 | 2051 | -62.6% |
1000cc & below cars
The segment consists of Mehran (now discontinued) and Bolan– both offered by Pak Suzuki. Alto is not included in comparison since it wasn’t available in July 2018. The segment took a mind blowing -85% reduction in sales.
| Car | July 2018 | July 2019 | Difference |
| Mehran | 3437 | 394 | -88.53% |
| Bolan | 1346 | 332 | -75.3% |
| Total | 4783 | 726 | -84.8% |
Other vehicles include:
| Car | July 2018 | July 2019 | Difference |
| Toyota Fortuner | 220 | 74 | -66.3% |
| Honda BR-V | 372 | 242 | -34.9% |
| Suzuki Ravi | 1195 | 840 | -29.7% |
| Toyota Hilux | 682 | 358 | -47.5% |
According to industry analysts, the downfall in automobile sales may render about 150,000 people jobless. Auto industry which was one of the best performing sectors in recent years is currently facing a bleak scenario ahead. This has prompted major players as well as new entrants to make major revisions in their manufacturing plans.
Related: Import Restrictions Will Benefit Pak Suzuki At Large
Auto industry had forecasted to increase its sales to 0.3 million by 2021 and half a million units by 2022; however from the looks of it, the sector is far from achieving this goal.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
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