New car registrations down 72 per cent in May

Registrations fall by 34 per cent year-on-year

Registrations for the year are down 34 per cent, to 51,904 as compared to the 79,350 new cars registered this time last year. Commercial vehicle registrations have also fallen sharply; down 70.3 per cent for May compared to May 2019, and 31.3 per cent for the year to date. HGV and truck registrations are down 69 per cent for May, and 23 per cent for the year to date.

Imports all-but wiped out

Imports of used cars have fallen even more than new sales, which is, we suppose, some small silver lining for the motor industry here. 857 used cars were imported in May, which is a 90 per cent decline on May 2019, and a 58 per cent decline for the year to date.

Brian Cooke, SIMI Director General commenting on the market figures said: "Our Industry is grateful to be open for business again. SIMI members continue to implement social distancing and sanitisation measures, in accordance with both Industry and State guidelines, that will protect both their employees and customers against the spread of COVID-19. With new car sales for the month over 70 per cent down on May last year and with both the dire economic outlook for the rest of the year and no hire drive activity, it is clearly going to be a very challenging period for the Industry. In the short term the State should expedite the safe re-opening of NCT, while also re-instate the Government Grants for Company Electric Vehicle purchases. The key July registration period is fast approaching, and the Motor Industry has commenced promotional activity with a variety of attractive new car offers already announced in order to optimise sales. In addition, strong Government support in the coming weeks, months and year will be vital in helping the Industry support the nearly 50,000 people in employment."

Toyota and Corolla still Ireland's best-sellers

Toyota is still on top of the best-selling brands table, followed by Volkswagen, Hyundai, Skoda, and Ford. The Toyota Corolla is still Ireland's best-selling car, followed by the Hyundai Tucson, Volkswagen Tiguan, Ford Focus, and Hyundai Kona.