NEW car registrations passed the one million mark in June, growing 10 per cent in the first half of 2013 to 1,163,623 units, according to the SMMT.
Latest figures show the UK new car market saw the 16th successive monthly rise in June, growing by 13.4 per cent to 214,957 units. Meanwhile, private, fleet and business sectors grew from January to June.
Private demand grew the most, showing a 17.1 per cent increase after a 34.4 per cent rise in quarter two and another 21.3 per cent increase in June.
Motorists switching to more fuel-efficient cars have also helped reduce average new car CO2 emissions to 129.1g/km in the first half of 2013, down 3.7 per cent on last year.
SMMT interim chief executive, Mike Baunton said: ‘Boosted by consistently strong private demand and further growth in June, half-year new car registrations have topped the one million mark.
‘June secured the 16th month of consecutive growth, a clear indicator that manufacturers and dealers are delivering desirable new products with tangible cost savings from the latest fuel-efficient technology couple to a wide variety of competitive finance offers.’
He added: ‘While there are still potential challenges ahead, recent robust growth suggests that the market is on course to perform well ahead of 2012 levels.’
Richard Lowe, head of retail and wholesale at Barclays, said: ‘What an incredible first half of the year. Consumer appetite continues to motor, with new car sales rising for the 16th consecutive month. The combination of good finance deals and more fuel efficient vehicles have encouraged sales, and there is no sign of this demand easing.’
