Jason Ford

SMMT announces 12 per cent rise in new-car registrations

News

New-car registrations rose more than 12 per cent in October to 151,252 units, according to figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

According to the automotive trade association, the new-car market increased five per cent over the year to date, growing in all but one month, totalling 1,771,861 units, or an increase of 83,823 units compared with a year ago.

Petrol, diesel and alternatively fuelled vehicle markets posted strong growth in the month and over the year to date, with most vehicle segments growing, notably the small-car and dual-purpose segments.

Consequently, the SMMT has revised up its forecast for the full year to more than two million units from 1.94 million in 2011.

‘Despite uncertainty in the European economy, the UK new-car market continues to grow,’ said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive. ‘It is encouraging to see the alternatively fuelled vehicle market performing strongly — up 13 per cent so far this year.’

Welcoming today’s announcement, John Leech, KPMG UK head of automotive, said: ‘As expected, UK car production bounced back in October after a surprise decline of 5.8 per cent in September.

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