Published Paper Details:

The Indian automobile industry has undergone a significant transformation over the last decade, with Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) emerging as the fastest-growing and most preferred passenger vehicle segment. Earlier, the Indian market was dominated by small hatchbacks due to affordability, fuel efficiency, and ease of driving. However, changing consumer preferences, rising disposable incomes, rapid urbanization, improved road infrastructure, and technological advancements have led to a remarkable shift toward SUVs. Automobile manufacturers have responded by introducing compact, mid-size, and premium SUVs across various price ranges, making them accessible to a wider section of consumers. The rapid rise of SUVs has not only influenced buying behaviour but has also reshaped production strategies, competition, employment opportunities, and investment patterns within the Indian automobile industry. Companies such as Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Tata Motors, Mahindra, Kia, Toyota, and MG Motor have significantly expanded their SUV portfolios to capture growing demand. At the same time, the increasing popularity of SUVs has raised concerns regarding fuel consumption, carbon emissions, urban traffic congestion, and environmental sustainability. This research paper examines the factors responsible for the rapid growth of SUVs in India and analyses their impact on the Indian automobile market from economic, social, and environmental perspectives. The paper also discusses the challenges facing the SUV segment and highlights future opportunities, particularly the emergence of electric and hybrid SUVs. The study is based on secondary data collected from industry reports, government publications, company reports, and academic journals.