New car registrations jump 9.3 per cent

By DOMINIC JEFF
Published on 06/08/2012 10:47

Britain’s new car registrations remained resilient in July, accelerating for the fifth month in a row.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said registrations rose 9.3 per cent last month to 143,884 units – the fifth monthly gain in a row and the best of 2012.

All fuel types showed increased volumes in July, with “alternatively-fuelled” vehicle registrations up 45.9 per cent in the month.

SMMT has now revised up its full year forecast for 2012 to 1.97 million units, compared with 1.94 million in 2011.

Chief executive Paul Everitt said the group was still forecasting a slight slowing of demand in the second half of the year.

He said: “International economic stability remains a concern for vehicle manufacturers and the UK market, but intense competition and new fuel efficient products are creating great opportunities for motorists.”