More than 2.5 million cars have been registered in the first 11 months of 2016, the latest figures from the SMMT have revealed.
According to the SMMT, the figure – 2,514,764 units – is a record for the period and represents a 2.5% increase compared with the same 11 months in 2015.
In November, 184,101 new cars were registered, with fleets once again fuelling much of the demand. Fleet registrations were up by 5.1%, to 99,299 units during the month, with the sector now commanding a 50.8% of the market – up from its November 2015 share of 49.5%.
Demand for alternatively fuelled vehicles, such as plug-in hybrid and electric cars, grew by a quarter compared with November 2015 to 6,663 units. AFVs now represent 3.6% of the overall new car market – the highest share ever achieved.
“Our industry continues to make vehicles that are ever safer, more refined, more efficient and more enjoyable to drive – and the latest advanced technology and cutting-edge designs are continuing to attract buyers into showrooms,” said Mike Hawes, SMMT’s chief executive.
“It’s encouraging to see that alternatively fuelled vehicles, although still a small proportion of the market, have seen strong growth this month achieving a record market share. Long-term Government support and incentives are essential if these vehicles are to command a larger market share in the future,” he added.