The UK new car market expanded for the 18th month in succession in August, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
New car registrations grew by 10.9 per cent in August, the fifth successive month of double-digit growth. Registrations of all fuel types continued to grow. “Alternatively-fuelled” vehicles increased by 41.1 per cent.
A total of 65,937 new cars were registered in August, with diesel sales of 32,903 edging those of petrol models by 795. Alternative fuel vehicles grew to 926 units and represented 1.4 per cent of the market last month.
SMMT boss Mike Hawes said: "UK new car registrations have now risen consecutively for a year and a half. Private and fleet buyers are clearly capitalising on attractive deals and new technologies against a backdrop of increasing economic confidence.
"Ahead of the September plate-change, August always has far fewer registrations, but the 10.9 per cent rise this month bodes well for the new 63-plate."
UK new car registrations, August 2013
Ford Fiesta 3289 units
Vauxhall Astra 2428 units
Volkswagen Golf 2233 units
Ford Focus 2225 units
Vauxhall Corsa 2151 units
BMW 1-series 1927 units
Nissan Qashqai 1875 units
BMW 3-series 1517 units
Volkswagen Polo 1442 units
Vauxhall Insignia 1147 units
