UK New Car Sales Post Smaller Slump in June

UK new car sales report smaller annual fall in JuneBritish new car registrations fell by a third annually in June when, according to preliminary data from an industry body, many dealerships reopened after COVID-19 lockdown measures were lifted, a smaller drop than in March, April, and May.

In June, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders ( SMMT) said about 145,000 units have been licensed.

Demand dropped by 44 percent in March, by 97 percent in April and by 89 percent in May.

The SMMT added that year-to-date, where it was at the same time in 2019, the market was nearly 50 percent behind.

Not all British car factories have reopened and many operate at reduced capacity as manufacturers attempt to balance supply and demand.

Although the car showrooms were allowed to reopen in England from 1 June, dealers in Wales and Scotland had to wait until 22 June and 29 June respectively.

The SMMT will release the final June revenue figures at 9 a.m. (0800 GMT) lundi.