- New car registrations grew for the 33rd consecutive month in November, up 8.0% to 172,327 units.
- 2,310,237 cars registered in the year-to-date, a rise of 9.4% and ahead of the 2013 full-year total.
- Market continues to exceed expectations amid still-rising consumer confidence.
- SMMT welcomes government confirmation of £75 million to support ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEVs) in the UK as part of this week’s roads investment strategy.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “Six months after the record was broken for consecutive monthly growth in new car registrations, the market continues to march on. Today’s figures are an indication of the continuing economic confidence that is driving the new car market, with business, fleet and private registrations all showing strong rises in the month. We expect a more stable market in 2015.
“Demand for ULEVs is growing strongly, and we welcome the Chancellor’s commitment to support the chargepoint network for electric vehicles, as well as ULEV R&D in the UK.”
UK new car registrations (rolling-year total) vs. GFK consumer confidence index – 2010-2014
Changing habits: the downsizing trend and the growth of Dual Purpose and MPVs
- The UK new car market has seen peaks and troughs in the past 15 years, but changing buying habits have been a constant throughout this period, with two trends standing out.
- The market for small cars (Mini and Supermini segments) has grown considerably, supported by lower running costs and advances in comfort and safety levels.
- A trend particularly evident in the past five years is the growth of the Dual Purpose (4×4, crossovers) and Multi Purpose vehicles as buyers seek extra space, style and versatility.
Click through to download the full November 2014 new car registrations news release and data table.
