Dealer delight as new car sales rise

Car dealerships in Kirklees are seeing the benefit of an increase in UK new car sales.

Despite facing tough economic times, sales of new cars in 2012 hit their highest number in four years.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has announced that the number of new registration plates rose 5.3 percent in 2012 to 2,044,609 – its highest figure since 2008.

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Graham Strange, sales manager of Stoneacre Peugeot, Woodkirk, said: “We saw an increase in overall sales during 2012, but new cars in particular did well – we had a 125 percent increase in sales of new models.

“I think the reason we and a lot of other places have been doing quite well is probably because dealerships are a bit smarter with their pricing in order to make the cars more affordable to drivers.”

Chris Whiteley from Clemo Motors, Cleckheaton, said: “Aside from 2009 when we had the car scrappage scheme, 2012 was a record year for us in terms of car sales.

“We have had quite a few people downgrading their more flashy cars for models that are a bit more economical but still stylish, but we also have first-time drivers getting new modfels as well.”

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SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said: “The market grew at its fastest rate for 11 years with innovative, fuel-efficient cars. Looking ahead to 2013, we anticipate the market will hold firm, with manufacturers and dealers working hard to deliver quality and value to motorists.”

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