7 June 2016
2 Mins read

Increase in new car registrations

There has been an increase in demand for new cars, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

During May, a total of 203,585 cars were registered – the highest total for May since 2002 and a 2.5 per cent increase on the previous month.

There was strong demand for alternative fueled vehicles as registrations increased by 12.1 per cent, while fleet buyers also accounted for a strong percentage of sales.

Diesel cars demand rose by five per cent, while there was a 0.6 per cent decline in the number of petrol cars registered.

Mike Hawes, SMMT’s chief executive, explained: "The new car market in May remained high with compelling offers available on the latest vehicles."

However, he added that some buyers are holding off making a purchase as they want to see the potential impact of the Brexit debate.