7 July 2015
3 Mins read

Car sales still booming

The latest car registration figures show a continued demand for new vehicles.

According to the data released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the number of new car registrations increased by seven per cent during the first half of 2015.

Overall, 1,376,889 cars were registered – the highest figures for a six-month period since the records began.

It is the 40th consecutive month of growth and shows a strong demand from buyers across the UK, especially for cars produced on home soil.

The figures revealed 13.9 per cent of buyers opted for a UK manufactured model – the highest level in five years and reflects the current strong position of the domestic market.

Alternatively fuelled vehicles have also increased in popularity, with a 70.9 per cent rise on May's registration figures. The largest growth was seen in the number of electric vehicles for fleet users, although private buyers are also increasing their interest in more eco-friendly models.

Chief executive of SMMT Mike Hawes said: "It is still a great time to buy a new car in the UK, and it is encouraging to see more consumers choosing British models. This is important to the wider economy with 799,000 people now employed across the UK automotive sector, including retail."

The Ford Fiesta remained the top selling car, followed by the Vauxhall Corsa and Ford Focus.