“September has been a positive month for new car sales as a result of the 66-plate change. The market remains strong with a 2.6% growth year-to-date, compared to last year with over 2 million units,” said Sue Robinson, Director of National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) which represents franchised car and commercial vehicle retailers across the UK, commenting on the SMMT’s new car registration figures.
New car sales rose 1.6% in September with 469,696 units, year-to-date 2,150,495 units have been registered. Alternative fuel vehicles continued to grow consistently, up 32.6% compared to 2015.
Robinson continued, “Whilst dealers’ expectations appeared to be split at the beginning of the month, more recent comments from members were fairly optimistic, in line with today’s figures.
“With near record numbers of new vehicles on the road aftersales, undertaken by the franchised dealers, will drive growth in the sector.
“The plate change has certainly helped boost consumers’ confidence and we should not be surprised to see some signs of stabilisation in the next months. The majority of dealers expect sales for the last quarter to be similar to last year’s record performance.”
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS:
Rupal Rawal, Press Officer Tel: 020 7307 3412 Mob: 07528 977 157 Press Office direct line: 020 7307 3422 Press Office fax: 020 7307 3406 Web: www.rmif.co.uk Email: rupal.rawal@rmif.co.uk
The Retail Motor Industry represents the interests of operators in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man providing sales and services to motorists and businesses. The RMI has a formal association with the independent Scottish Motor Trade Association which represents the retail motor industry in Scotland.
