Government urged to kick-start consumer confidence after weak car registrations in August

• August new car market down by 18.6% and 3.8% year-to-date.
• Mini segment volume doubles in August, taking year-to-date increase to 37.1%.
• Diesel registrations account for 43.2% of 2008 new car market, year-to-date.

“August is one of the quietest months for the new car market, but this year it was the lowest since 1966 with only 63,225 registrations. The slow-down in the UK mirrors the difficult conditions being experienced across the main European markets,” said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive. “Industry is encouraged by the growing interest in lower carbon cars, but is concerned by the reluctance of consumers to commit to major purchases. There is a clear need for sustained action by government to boost the economy and restore confidence.”