The latest new vehicle sales data shows private buyers have begun returning to showrooms in greater numbers adding to the demand from businesses who continue to take advantage of stimulus measures.
Official VFACTS data released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) shows that 73,287 passenger cars, SUVs and commercial vehicles were sold in August 2009.
“These figures indicate that private buyers are regaining confidence and re-entering the market,” FCAI Chief Executive Andrew McKellar said.
“The better than expected sales to private buyers and rental companies have really buoyed the market heading into spring,” he said.
This August result is down 5.2 per cent (4,036 vehicles) compared to August last year but there were increases in some segments of the market.
- SUV luxury – up 19.2 per cent
- Commercial vans – up 8.2 per cent
- Small cars – up 7.2 per cent
- SUV medium – up 1.6 per cent
- Sports cars – up 1.4 per cent
- Light cars – up 0.3 per cent
“Strong demand continues from business buyers who are taking advantage of the tax break available and the effectiveness of the stimulus measure is being reflected in the supply constraints experienced on some models,” Mr McKellar said.
Year-to-date 603,843 new vehicles have been sold, down 14.2 per cent (100,151) compared to the same period last year.
Toyota remains in the top sales position for August with 15,994 vehicle sales, ahead of Holden with 9,505 and Ford with 7,623.
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