Car sales in decline across Europe
Car sales across the European Union were down 57 per cent in May as the coronavirus pandemic decimated sales in all 27 countries.
That took the total number of registrations for the month down to 622,067 units, taking the year-to-date figures to 3.95 million, down 43 per cent on the same period in 2019.
The UK was worst-hit, with sales down 89 per cent, while Slovenia and Belgium weathered the storm best of all, seeing sales dip 31 and 32 per cent respectively.
However, despite the bleak figures, the market was showing signs of recovery, following April’s registrations being down 78 per cent.
Felipe Munoz, global analyst at automotive analysts JATO Dynamics, said: “Registrations volumes more than doubled in May, compared to the figures achieved in April. Despite the positive signs of recovery, a proportion of these registrations could correspond to sales that occurred prior to lockdown; therefore, we still do not have enough information to predict whether Europe will experience a “V” or a “U” shaped recovery.”
The biggest reductions were seen in petrol and diesel vehicles, which saw a drop of 62 and 59 per cent respectively, while electrified vehicles saw a drop of just eight per cent.
This saw electrified vehicles increase their market share from 7.2 per cent in May 2019 to 15.3 per cent in May 2020.
Munoz added: “The crisis has shown us that hybrid demand and growth fluctuates, while plug-in cars gain traction due to lower prices. Nevertheless, we suspect that mild-hybrids will soon boost hybrid sales.”
The Renault Clio was the best-selling car in the month, beating the Volkswagen Golf to top spot. Both models were benefiting from new generations going on sale, but JATO says the Golf ’s sales suffered as Volkswagen was forced to interrupt deliveries following a software error.
MOT tests will be made mandatory once again on August 1, roads minister Baroness Vere has announced today. Drivers had been granted a six-month exemption from MOT tests in March in an effort to help slow down the spread of coronavirus. However, with lockdown measures easing across the UK, MOT tests for cars, motorcycles and vans will once again be made mandatory in England, Scotland and Wales, bringing an end to the extension scheme.
Drivers with an MOT due date prior to August 1 will continue to receive a six-month exemption from the test, but their vehicle will still be required to be properly maintained and kept in a roadworthy condition. These people are still able to voluntarily get their cars MOT’d should they want to, however.
Roads Minister Baroness Vere said: “As people return to our roads, it is vital that motorists are able to keep their vehicles safe. That’s why as restrictions are eased, from 1 August MOT testing will again become mandatory. I urge drivers who are due for their MOT to book a test as soon they can.”