British new car registrations decrease but demand for electric models surges
Figures from SMMT (the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders) show that the UK’s new car market declined 1.6% in January as 161,013 new cars were registered in the UK last month.
In the first month of 2019, private buyers boost the market but fail to offset declines in business and fleet registrations.
- Demand for electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid cars increased 26.3%.
- Alternatively fueled vehicles grew 26.3%
- Petrol demand rose 7.3%.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “It’s encouraging to see car registrations in January broadly on par with a year ago as the latest high tech models and deals attracted buyers into showrooms. This, however, is still the fifth consecutive month of overall decline in the market. To restore momentum, we need supportive policies, not least on vehicle taxation, to encourage buyers to invest in new, cleaner vehicles that best suit their driving needs – from the latest petrols and diesels to an ever growing range of exciting electrified vehicles. This would be good for the environment and good for the industry and those who depend on it.”
Best Selling cars in January 2019
- Ford fiesta – 5,399
- Ford Focus – 4,397
- Nissan Qashqai – 4,270
- Volkswagen Golf – 3,930
- Mercedes-Benz A-Class – 3,768
- Vauxhall Corsa – 3,097
- Kia Sportage – 3,063
- Volkswagen Polo – 2,963
- Toyota Yaris – 2,821
- Mercedes-Benz C-Class – 2,606