UK car registrations increased 10.8% in 2013 compared to the previous year’s figures and the market secured its place as the second largest in Europe behind Germany, according to data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
The total for the year, 2,264,737, came on top of 22 months of growth in new car registrations in the UK, with December’s figure of 152,918 new cars showing an increase of 23.8% on the 123,557 of November.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Access deeper industry intelligence
Experience unmatched clarity with a single platform that combines unique data, AI, and human expertise.
Private sales accounted for just under half of all new registrations but showed greater growth than the fleet and business sales segments with a 15.6% increase in registrations over 2012.
Mike Hawes, chief executive of the SMMT, said: "The 10.8% increase in 2013 reflects the attractive financial offers available, as well as increased demand for more technologically advanced new cars. We expect new car registrations to remain stable in 2014 as customers return to a more regular replacement cycle."
The SMMT predicted that, while growth will continue into 2014, it will be more stable and sustainable at 1% over the coming 12 months.
Electric and hybrid vehicles have also seen one of their strongest rises in registrations as customers seek more efficiency, according to the SMMT. The registration of electric vehicles increased to 32,715, a 20.5% increase over 2012.
US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?
Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.
By GlobalDataThe figures showed the super-mini car market continues to outsell the traditional small medium segment, such as the Volkswagen Golf, and now commands a 35.9% market share.
The UK’s love affair with the Ford Fiesta also continued into 2013, with 121,929 registered in 2013 – 34,000 more than its nearest rival the Ford Focus.
