The UK new car market enjoyed a boost in August, as year-on-year demand rose 23.1%, according to the latest figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
94,094 new cars were registered in the month as the market responded to regulatory changes, with cost-savvy buyers taking advantage of some compelling deals in what is always one of the year’s smallest months.
Meanwhile, the UK’s growing range of hybrid, plug-in hybrid and pure electric cars continued to attract buyers, with a record one in 12 people choosing one.
Demand surged by a substantial 88.7%, with the sector accounting for 8.0% of the market – its highest ever level – as billions of pounds of manufacturer investment help deliver more ultra-low and zero emission models to the market.
Since the launch of the Plug-In Car Grant in January 2011, there have been 161,349 eligible cars registered. Please note: this data includes only new car registrations and not commercial vehicles.
“It’s great to see such strong growth, particularly in the important electric vehicle market. However, given August is always a small month in new car registrations ahead of the important plate-change month of September, it would be wrong to view the market as booming. Indeed, this past month has seen some significant variances as regulatory changes have disrupted some supplies. In the long term, however, the new emissions certification test will give consumers renewed confidence in the performance of all vehicles, helping them choose the latest, cleanest technology that best suits their driving needs, whether that be petrol, diesel, hybrid or plug-in,” said Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive.
[source: SMMT]
