The UK new car market has fallen again in May 2019, according to data provided by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.
Across the month, new car registrations in the UK dropped by 4.6%, with 183,724 units registered. The decrease is a reflection of ongoing uncertainty surrounding diesel and clean air zones, in addition to the removal of incentives for plug-in hybrid vehicles, the industry body said.
The prevailing economic and political instability to veil the UK was also highlighted as a reason for the decline as it continues to have an impact of consumer and business confidence.
“Confusing policy messages and changes to incentives continue to affect consumer and business confidence, causing drivers to keep hold of their older, more polluting vehicles for longer,” Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, commented on the data.
“New cars are safer, cleaner and more advanced than ever and, with sophisticated safety, efficiency and comfort features as well as a host of attractive deals on offer, there has never been a better time to invest in a new car,” Mike Hawes continued.
Declines occurred across all sales types in May. Registrations by private consumers fell 5%, fleets by 3% and business buyers by 29%.
The modest growth in petrol registration and alternatively fuelled vehicles was not significant enough to offset the considerable decline in demand for diesel, which dropped for the 26th consecutive month, the industry body revealed.
As a result of the significant industry investment in new technology, the latest diesel models are safer and cleaner than before, and do not face charges of restrictions at any locations in the UK.
Among the best sellers for the month, Ford Fiesta and Ford Focus (NYSE:F) came in at first and second place respectively, followed by Volkswagen Golf (ETR:VOW3) in third and Vauxhall Corsa in fourth.