Official VFACTS figures released today by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) indicates sales of 97,400 new passenger cars, SUVs and commercial vehicles in March 2013, showing sales have steadied compared to the growth in monthly sales seen in January and February this year. While year to date sales of 273,048 vehicles represent a 5% increase on sales in the same period for 2012, March 2013 sales are marginally lower (216 vehicles) than in March 2012.
New car sales continue to be led by small vehicles with three of the top five vehicles represented by small four cylinder cars. The Mazda 3 again leads the overall sales in March with sales of 3,786 vehicles, followed by Toyota Corolla (3,512), Toyota Hilux (3,127), Hyundai i30 (2,595) and Nissan Navara (2,499). Small passenger vehicles and light commercials represented 8 of the top 10 vehicles in March 2013 sales. FCAI also noted strong sales of small SUVs in March 2013, with monthly sales of 7,541 up by 41.3% (2,205 vehicles) compared to 2012.
Both ACT and Tasmania had strong sales growth in March 2013 compared to March 2012, with increases of 6.5% and 14.9% respectively. Victoria, South Australia and New South Wales showed slight declines in sales during March while the Northern Territory, Queensland and Western Australia showed moderate growth.
The FCAI noted that sales of passenger motor vehicles continues to decline as a percentage of total sales, with year to date sales reflecting 49.1% of total sales compared to 53.7% the same time last year.
Private purchases of diesel powered light commercial vehicles continue to show strong growth with sales increasing by 77.8% (6,263 vehicles) compared to year to date 2012.
Purchases by government departments and authorities continues the decline seen in the previous months with year to date sales down 30.1% compared to 2012 levels.
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VFACTS monthly auto sales data is available the 3rd working day after the end of every month at www.fcai.com.au
For further information contact:
Sheena Ireland, Communications Manager
P: 02 6229 8221
M: 0458 038 555
E: [email protected]