New car sales in August were down on comparative figures for 2016, the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (Simi) reported on Friday, citing a continued negative impact from Brexit as well as the affects of rising used car imports.
Registrations last month were down 21 per cent to 5,754, compared to 7,297 in August 2016. For the year, they dropped 10 per cent to 124,711, from 138,504.
"Our industry continues to experience a direct impact from Brexit in the market place," said Simi deputy director general Brian Cooke, appealing for no negative decisions relating to the sector in Budget 2018.
Used car imports for the month of August increased by 31 per cent to 8,451 while for the year to date, the increase has come in at 40 per cent (62,161).
“These numbers have a knock-on impact on used car values and new car sales volumes,” Mr Cooke said.
Emission testing regime
“The first of September marks the commencement of new EU emissions testing regime for new cars which will bring more accurate information for consumers on emissions and fuel consumption.”
Sales in new commercial vehicles also decreased. Light commercial vehicle (LCV) registrations were down 23 per cent to 1,380 on August 2016 when the figure was 1,797. For the year, the decline was 14 per cent to 21,039.
New heavy commercial vehicles (HGV) fell 18 per cent for the month to 204, and by 14 per cent to 2,102 for the year to date.
“Ahead of Budget 2018 our message to the decision makers is simple: with this declining market there should be no negative taxation decision in relation to VRT, road tax, or fuel,” Mr Cooke said.
“The industry is focused on offering alternative fuel solutions and the Government can encourage customers to avail of these through a variety of incentives.
“Some car brands have already rolled out their own initiatives to encourage the removal of older vehicles with the purchase of new cleaner cars.”
