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In India, alternative fuels beat petrol in record August car sales
August set a sales record in India, and for the first time alternative powertrains overtook petrol.
7 September 2026 1 min read 15 views
In August, India posted record vehicle sales and the market mix changed: alternative powertrains moved ahead of petrol. Hybrids, CNG and other electrified solutions grew strongly, helped by lower running costs and buyers focusing more on fuel economy.
For European readers, it is a clear sign that even in major emerging markets the shift away from oil-dependent technologies is speeding up. Petrol remains relevant, but it is no longer the only leading choice.