6:23 pm, September 6, 2011
NEW car registrations were up 7.3 per cent in August, the lastest figures from the SMMT reveal.
It’s the first rise since June 2010 but ‘the outlook remains challenging’.
The SMMT’s chief executive Paul Everitt said: ‘New car registrations in August rose for the first time since June 2010, up 7.3 per cent to 59,346 units.
‘August represents a relatively small share of the new car market and the September new 61-plate registrations will be far more important for vehicle manufacturers and franchised dealers.
‘The September new car market is always important for the UK motor industry, accounting for around 17 per cent of the full year’s registrations. Consumers are nervous about the future, but with industry offering unprecedented improvements in fuel economy, competitive finance offers and a wide variety of new models, buyers will find there is something to suit every taste and pocket.”Although it is positive to see a rise in new car sales in August, the overall market remains challenging and consumer confidence remains fragile.” said Sue Robinson, director of the RMI National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA).
‘Feedback from NFDA members, who are franchised car dealers throughout the UK and are in continuous contact with consumers, are reporting that new cars will sell if there are deals available and the purchase looks attractive.
‘Consumers are still nervous about purchasing big ticket items but while interest rates remain low some consumers do have disposable income to spare. Consumers are becoming aware that downsizing to a new smaller vehicle may actually save them money in ownership and running costs.
‘Our members are aware that the sales process within their businesses must make the consumer feel at ease to raise their confidence in buying a new car.’
