2016 was the biggest year for new car sales since the recession
And the industry is expecting to record similar results in 2017.
NEW CAR SALES across Ireland hit their highest level in almost a decade last year as registrations rebounded to the best figure since the 2008 economic slump.
In total, there were 146,672 new cars registered in 2016, an almost-18% increase on the figure for 2015 and the highest since 2008.
The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) said the increase was in line with expectations – adding that strong new car sales tapered off in the later half of last year.
Imported used cars also had a bumper 2016 with SIMI putting this down to several factors, including the euro’s strength against the pound giving Irish buyers better purchasing power.
There were more new Toyotas registered during the year than any other brand, with the Japanese marque finishing ahead of Hyundai, Volkswagen, Ford and Nissan in the sales tally.
Economic barometer
While an increase in car sales is often used as a barometer of a strong economy, SIMI’s director general Alan Nolan said sales of work vehicles were probably a more accurate measure of the country’s position.
“Commercial vehicle registrations, which perhaps best reflect the level of activity in the economy, were also significantly up on 2015, with light commercial vehicle registrations finishing 18.3% up and heavy commercial vehicle registrations 31.3% ahead of last year,” he said.
“As we move into 2017 and the new 171 registration period, the industry is anticipating a continuation of the strong performance seen during 2016 and is projecting similar registration numbers to last year.”
On a regional basis, Roscommon had the biggest spike in sales, with 31% more new cars registered last year compared to 2015. Meath saw the second largest increase with a 24% jump while Waterford and Cork increased by 23%.
Written by Rónán Duffy and posted on TheJournal.ie
