“Retail demand drove the UK car market in 2012 whilst fleet sales were flat” said Sue Robinson, Director of the RMI 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 figures, released today, show sales rose 5.3% in 2012 giving a total market of 2,044,609. Retail registrations in December 2012 increased by 12.5% whilst fleet registrations fell by 0.3% and small business users fell by 9.5%. Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFVs) saw a decline of 11.2% in December indicating that private buyers are still not convinced of the benefits of these vehicles.
Sue Robinson continued “The overall market for 2012 showed encouraging progress. It indicated that competitive offers by manufacturers where persuade retail buyers into the showrooms. Strong finance offers are also winning over consumers, particularly in the form of Personal Contract Purchase Plans.
“Looking into 2013 consumers will still need strong encouragement to commit to big ticket purchases such as cars. Consumer confidence is still fragile and competitive pricing and strong incentives will be important in convincing customers to buy a new car.”
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS:
Keely Scanlan, Press Officer
Tel: 020 7307 3410
Mob: 07825097697
Press Office direct line: 020 7307 3422
Press Office fax: 020 7307 3406
Web: www.rmif.co.uk Email: keely.scanlan@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.
