New car registrations in the UK dropped by 11.5 per cent year on year in November, a result better than originally forecast.
Figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders reveal a total of 139,875 units were registered last month, with demand from the fleet sector helping to offset private sales that have stuttered since the scrappage incentive scheme was withdrawn earlier this year. Total sales were up 14 per cent on November 2009 if scrappage volumes are discounted.
New car registrations are expected to finish 2010 at just over 2.03 million units, which would be two per cent up on 2009. December’s sales are likely to be buoyed by motorists look to beat the VAT rise in January.
SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said: “Next year will continue to be challenging as consumer spending tightens and the government’s austerity measures take effect.”
The UK’s best-selling car last month was again the Ford Fiesta, although demand for superminis has decreased since scrappage ended.
