Total revenues for April-September this year stood at Rs 1,092.87 crore as compared to Rs 858.67 crore a year ago. In the first half, gross sales stood at 15,449 vehicles as against 12,081 vehicles a year ago despite a contraction in the off-take from the state transport undertakings, which makes up a good chunk of its 35 per cent market share.

The company had posted a higher profit of Rs 18.19 crore in the second quarter (July-September) of 1999 as against a loss of Rs 3.52 crore in the same period of last year. Total income during the quarter amounted to Rs 616.34 crore as against Rs490.84 crore previously.

In the second quarter, the company sold 8,739 vehicles, representing a 30 per cent jump over first quarter sales of 6,710 vehicles, a company statement here said. The results, which were taken on record by the board of directors on Saturday, indicate a turnaround in the company's fortunes in the second quarter and thereafter.

The gross operating margin of the company improved by over 60 per cent to Rs 80.84 crore as against Rs 50.34 crore a year ago.