New car registrations hit with double digit decline in October

Commenting on the latest car registration figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, which show a significant decline of 12.2% to 158,192 units, Jamie Hamilton, UK Automotive Director at Deloitte said:

“Today’s data and those over the past couple of months show the industry is facing a number of tough challenges, including fragile consumer confidence and conditions in the wider economy. A more specific issue is the uncertainty over potential future levies on diesel vehicles which has contributed to a year-on-year decline in diesel sales of nearly one third.

“One positive factor is the strength of the global car industry, with UK production for the international market still at very high levels.

“All big manufacturers view electric vehicles as an opportunity on the other side of this challenging period. The UK is well-placed for future production of such vehicles, with solid investment in robotics to meet future demand.”

End

Notes to editors

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