New car sales saw a modest decline in November reflecting consumer uncertainty in the run-up to a general election, according to the latest SMMT’s new passenger car registration figures.
The new car market declined by -1.3% in November, with 156,621 units registered. Year to date, the market is -2.7% down from last year. Sales of pure electric vehicles rose an impressive 228.8% with 4,652 units. Petrol grew 2.0% and diesel declined -27.2%. While private demand declined -6.1%, fleet rose 2.8%.
It is positive to see the upward trend facing the electric vehicle market with pure EVs taking a market share of 3% in November.
“Sales of EVs are likely to keep growing as market conditions continue to improve, customers’ knowledge and appetite grow, and franchised retailers are enabled to meet the rising demand for EVs”, said NFDA Director Sue Robinson.
“Retailers are working extremely hard to provide their customers with the best possible experience in the showroom as well as online and help them select the car that best suits driving habits”, she added.
NFDA hopes a clear election result will end the prolonged political confusion and stimulate the retail automotive industry.
