Navratri sales: Chip shortage dents PV retails, 2-wheelers see weak demand

High acquisition cost dissuades motorcycle and scooter buyers this festive season, while carmakers have been unable to cater to the demand owing to chip shortage

The first leg of the 35-day festive period, which ended with Dussehra, failed to bring any cheer for auto companies.

While makers of passenger vehicles struggled to meet demand due to the persistent shortage of semiconductors, a recovery in demand remained elusive for two-wheeler manufacturers despite offers and schemes. 

The overall season, which ends two days after Diwali, is unlikely to bring any turnaround in either the supply or the demand scenario, said dealers and officials at auto companies. 

In contrast to last year, when most carmakers ended the festive season with high double-digit deliveries, this year overall retails are