Rise in New Car Purchases

The section of society purchasing new cars rose by 1.8% in 2010 according to industry reports and data.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reported that there were 2,030,846 new registrations in the year which is a rise of 35,847.

There was a rise in demand for fleet vehicles of more than 10% but the same data showed that there was a decrease in private purchases which is linked to the end of the scrappage scheme.

The SMMT went on to warn that it expected these sales figures to slip by "up to 5%" as difficult market and economical conditions continue to affect the UK.

Phil Everitt, SMMT Chief Executive said that 2010 had been "a year of recovery for the motor industry" and added:
"Economic conditions remain extremely challenging, but industry expects demand to strengthen in the second half of the year," he added.

"Competition in the retail sector will intensify as the industry seeks to rebalance demand across its new and used car and service and repair business."