“It is encouraging that new car sales increased in April with private registrations continuing to improve” said Sue Robinson, Director of the 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 month on month sales were up 14.8% compared to April last year. Private registrations increased by 32.3%. Robinson continued “Consumers continue to be drawn into the showroom by strong manufacturer deals and competitive finance offers. Dealers are reporting demand for smaller vehicles that offer better fuel economy and cheaper maintenance. This along with the new products and services offered by dealers and manufacturers is encouraging people to buy. “Consumer confidence is still fragile therefore competitive pricing and strong incentives remain 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.