UK records highest September for new car market

London – The UK new car market continued its upward trajectory in September, rising 1.6 percent year-on-year, according to data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

In all 469,696 cars were registered, as buyers purchased the new 66-plate.

The performance marks the highest September on record, while the total number of cars registered so far this year also grew to 2,150,495 units, up 2.6 percent compared with the same period last year. It is only the second time that the two million mark has been passed in September since 2004.

There was also increased demand for diesels and alternatively fuelled vehicles, up 2.8 percent and 32.6 percent respectively.

SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes, said, "September is always one of the biggest months for Britain’s new car market. The new 66-plate, combined with a diverse range of exciting new models featuring the latest technology, has certainly helped draw buyers into showrooms and many are taking full advantage of the attractive deals and low interest financing options on offer.

“However business and consumers place September orders many months in advance, so the ability of the market to maintain this record level of demand will depend on the ability of government to overcome political uncertainty and safeguard the conditions that underpin consumer appetite.”