5th September 2008
New UK car registrations for August fell to the lowest level since 1966, according to industry figures.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) revealed that there were 63,225 registrations last month compared to an August average of around 75,000. The figure is a fall of 18.6% from August 2007.
The organisation said that the UK slowdown - a fall of 3.8% compared to the same point last year - is mirrored across the main European markets.
Despite these figures, diesel cars - often more fuel-efficient than their petrol equivalent - are continuing to increase their market share. Diesel sales have accounted for 43.2% of registrations so far in 2008, although the actual number sold declined.
Volkswagen's Golf was the best-selling diesel model in August, and has also been the best-seller over 2008.
August is typically one of the quietest months for the new car market, accounting for only around 3% of annual volumes as buyers hold out for the September number plate change.
However SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said that this year had been particularly poor.
"There is a clear need for sustained action by the Government to boost the economy and restore confidence," he added.
The top two overall sellers in August were the Vauxhall Corsa and the Ford Focus.
Weakest August since 1966 for new car registrations
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) revealed that there were 63,225 registrations last month compared to an August average of around 75,000. The figure is a fall of 18.6% from August 2007.
The organisation said that the UK slowdown - a fall of 3.8% compared to the same point last year - is mirrored across the main European markets.
Despite these figures, diesel cars - often more fuel-efficient than their petrol equivalent - are continuing to increase their market share. Diesel sales have accounted for 43.2% of registrations so far in 2008, although the actual number sold declined.
Volkswagen's Golf was the best-selling diesel model in August, and has also been the best-seller over 2008.
August is typically one of the quietest months for the new car market, accounting for only around 3% of annual volumes as buyers hold out for the September number plate change.
However SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said that this year had been particularly poor.
"There is a clear need for sustained action by the Government to boost the economy and restore confidence," he added.
The top two overall sellers in August were the Vauxhall Corsa and the Ford Focus.
Tags: Car
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