Car sales drop dramatically

Source: Exec Digital UK

Date :07/10/2008 15:01:33

Car sales dropped 21 percent in September according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

The drop last month came despite the introduction of new number plates. In the past year sales of new cars have dropped 7.5 percent overall, but the speed is quickening – with an 18.8 percent drop in the past quarter.

While 10 out of 13 manufacturing categories fell last month, the automaker section showed the most dramatic reductions.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) warned that a further 20 percent reduction in consumer demand would leave UK sales at the lowest they’ve been since 1996.

The knock-on effect to the manufacturing industry has been dramatic. While Jaguar Land Rover has cut back on production, Ford has even introduced a four-day working week at its Southampton plant until the end of the year.