New car sales slump by 15% in weakest September since 2011
CAR sales in Northern Ireland slumped by 15% last month to hit their lowest September levels in seven years, latest figures show.
However, the percentage fall in sales in the province — from 6,326 to 5,365 — was lower than the UK average fall of 20.5%, according to the report from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.
The Ford Fiesta was the province’s most popular car in September, followed by stablemate the Ford Focus. But Ford marques were outsold in the top 10 by three Citroen models, which accounted for 370 cars sold.
Over the first nine months of the year overall, sales here were down 4.65% compared to the year before, with 4,3772 models purchased.
Scotland reported the steepUlster est fall last month compared to September 2017 at 22%, followed by England at 20.6%, and Wales at 17%.
The SMMT said the declines across the UK were mainly due to changes in the way new cars are tested, with tougher emissions regulations introduced in the European Union.
Bank chief economist Richard Ramsey said there had been 1,000 fewer cars sold in September this year compared to the year before, a seven-year low for the month.
And September’s performance was continuing the trend of the last few years. “The latest figures continue the trend of falling new car sales that has been evident since early 2016.
“This year is on course for the weakest new car sales in six years. Some 43,772 new cars were sold during the first nine months of the year.
“That’s almost 5% lower than the corresponding period last year and 27% below 2007’s peak.”
He said inflation had been squeezing consumer incomes. “Rising food, motor fuel and utility bills are set to see this trend continue into 2019.”
He also said changes to emissions regulations were having an impact. “Car manufacturers have struggled to adapt quickly to this new regime. Uncertainty surrounding Brexit is impacting on the sector too.
“A ‘no-deal’ Brexit could significantly disrupt the supply chains of Europe’s auto industry. This would affect the supply of new cars in 2019, irrespective of what demand is there.”