FORD QUICK OFF THE BLOCKS AS NEW YEAR CAR SALES REBOUND
The Government scrappage scheme contributed to a rise in new car sales of 4.5% in January compared to the same period in 2009, according to the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI). 16,650 cars were registered last month, up from 15,929 in January 2009. Ford, with a 15.9% share, was market leader, ahead of Toyota and VW.
Car Sales January 2010
|
|
Cars |
|
1. Ford |
2,643 (15.9%) |
|
2. Toyota |
2,081 (12.5%) |
|
3. VW |
1,819 (10.9%) |
|
4. Renault |
1,543 (9.3%) |
|
5. GM (Opel) |
1,221 (7.3%) |
|
6. Nissan |
970 (5.8%) |
The jump in sales was most pronounced in tax bands A and B, where volumes were up by over 15%, reflecting the impact of the scrappage scheme. “The scheme is definitely arousing interest among prospective buyers,” said Eddie Murphy, Chairman and Managing Director, Ford Ireland. “Aside from solid orders, we’ve seen a strong level of enquiries which should bear fruit this month and next.”
The scheme helped the Ford Fiesta to become the best-selling car in Ireland last month, with 1,062 units, ahead of the Ford Focus with 915 units.
“Alongside scrappage, some pent-up demand and a tentative degree of consumer confidence brought a lift in registrations in a month which had fewer selling days [than last year], and was disrupted by the inclement weather,” continued Eddie Murphy. “Clearly, people are also attracted by the many deals on offer. I expect the sales improvement to continue into February and beyond.”
Sales of light vans rose to 2,068 units in January, a jump of 28% on January 2009. Ford was again the top-selling brand, with a 20.3% share.