New car registrations rise 8.6 per cent in September, SMMT reveals

New car registrations rise 8.6 per cent in September, SMMT reveals

New car registrations in the UK rose by almost nine per cent in September 2015 compared to the same month last year, new data has revealed.

According to the latest figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the number of new cars registered last month reached 462,517, which is a year-on-year rise of 8.6 per cent and the highest September figures ever recorded. Buyers reportedly took advantage of a range of competitive deals on the latest 65-plate, making it the 43rd consecutive month of growth in the market.

Market research such as this is always valuable to those working in the motor trade industry, whether it is an individual repairing cars part-time or a large dealership. Not only can it help inform their stock and working practices but it will also inform their decision when it comes to obtaining a road risks insurance or combined motor trade insurance policy.

The SMMT data showed that demand was up across petrol, diesel and alternatively-fuelled vehicles (AFVs). Registrations of diesel and petrol cars in September grew by 4.1 per cent and 12.3 per cent respectively, while AFVs recorded another strong month with volumes up 21.7 per cent.

Mike Hawes, the chief executive of SMMT, commented: "September is traditionally one of the year’s biggest months for new car registrations, and last month set an autumn record. With plenty of attractive, affordable deals available on the new 65-plate, Britain’s car buyers – whether private, fleet or business consumers – were busier than ever.

"The market reached pre-recession levels some time ago, and we anticipate some levelling off in the coming months. It is too early to draw conclusions, but customer demand for diesel remained strong, accounting for one in two cars registered."