JULY UK NEW CAR MARKET GROWS. Short new car news.

According to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the UK new car market grew by 2.5% in July. A total of 147,517 new cars were registered last month, marking the 24th consecutive month of growth. July’s growth was mainly due to the fleet sector, with private demand stalling.

Two years of new car market growth against a backdrop of a turbulent economy is testament to the sector’s resilience and the attractiveness of the deals on offer. Weakening private retail demand, however, particularly for EVs and despite generous manufacturer discounts, is the over-riding concern. More people than ever are buying and driving EVs but we still need the pace of change to quicken, else the UK’s climate change ambitions are threatened and manufacturers’ ability to hit regulated EV targets are at risk. Achieving market transition at the pace demanded requires greater support for consumers and, with the all-important new number plate month of September beckoning, action on incentives and infrastructure is needed now.

Said Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive.

July’s best selling car was the Kia Sportage.

Year-to-date is the Ford Puma.

Figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).