November new car sales mark 33rd month of growth

SMMT Figures show that new car registrations grew for the 33rd consecutive month in November, up 8.0 per cent to 172,327 units. 2,310,237 cars have been registered in the year-to-date; a rise of 9.4 per cent and ahead of the 2013 full-year total.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “Six months after the record was broken for consecutive monthly growth in new car registrations, the market continues to march on. Today’s figures are an indication of the continuing economic confidence that is driving the new car market, with business, fleet and private registrations all showing strong rises in the month. We expect a more stable market in 2015.”

The SMMT welcomed government confirmation of £75 million to support ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEVs) in the UK as part of this week’s roads investment strategy.  Said Hawes: “Demand for ULEVs is growing strongly, and we welcome the Chancellor’s commitment to support the chargepoint network for electric vehicles, as well as ULEV R&D in the UK.”

Commenting on the registration figures, Sue Robinson, Director of National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) which represents franchised car and commercial vehicle retailers across the UK, described them as “extremely encouraging”, adding: “Consumer confidence continued to drive the new car market this month following a record breaking year for new car sales.

“Competitive pricing and strong finance incentives have driven new car sales in 2014. Dealers have reported increased footfall in showrooms throughout the year and this continued in to November. The NFDA expect the market to remain strong into the New Year.”