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February 2016 shows highest registrations since 2004
February 2016 bucked the trend of being one of the slowest months of the year for new car sales – with registrations at their highest since 2004. The strong start to the year continues with a February rise of 8.4% compared to the same month in 2015. The figures, which show over 80,000 new cars registered, come from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Private customers have driven the increase, and alternatively fuelled vehicles continue their upwards trajectory with an uplift of nearly 20%. Diesel and petrol engines also increased by 5.6% and 10.7% respectively.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: “February is typically one of the quietest months of the year, ahead of March’s plate change, but this positive performance is encouraging and puts the sector in a good position for the coming 12 months.”
A closer look at the year-to-date
With both January and February showing record increases in new car registrations, 2016 is off to a strong start. In total, there have been a quarter of a million registrations, a rise of almost 5% on 2015. Sales of all fuel-types have increased, with the highest riser being alternatively fuelled vehicles, showing a 28.6% leap in sales.
The top 10 most popular models of the year so far:
- Ford Fiesta
- Nissan Qashqai
- Vauxhall Corsa
- Ford Focus
- Volkswagen Golf
- Volkswagen Polo
- Audi A3
- Vauxhall Astra
- Nissan Juke
- Vauxhall Mokka
How can motor retailers attract new car buyers to their dealership?
In our latest free to download eBook, we take a look at the importance of digital technology to dealerships. There is a growing trend of customers taking to the internet to research new vehicles before a purchase, comparing deals, looking at stock, reading reviews and more. An online presence has become vital for dealerships but it is also important to make the most of the opportunities it presents – our eBook shows you how.
The digital revolution is not just important for new car sales, of course, as 71% of used car buyers will visit your website before a physical visit. 71% of all car buyers do all of their research online and a fifth only visit one showroom. For more statistics on the rise of digital technology for dealerships, check out our infographic: Digital car sales revolution in numbers.