Deliveries of fleet vehicles are increasing as new car deliveries approach record levels for a calendar year. The percentage of record sales to Business, Government and Rental (including heavy vehicles) has been climbing since June as the constraints unwind from the supply chain.
In 2023, Australians will take delivery of more new cars than ever before. In November, deliveries to fleet buyers reach 49% with dealerships and manufacturers starting to reconnect with fleet buyers after ignoring them in favour of profitable retail buyers.
It will be interesting to see in 2024 if new car advertising also pivots towards fleet buyers as interest rates and cost of living pressures soften retail demand.
Sales in November exceeded previous records with 112,141 delivered to Australians in the month, with more than 1.1 million new vehicles purchased year-to-date. The result highlights the continued strength of new vehicle sales with six of the past seven months the highest on record.
FCAI Chief Executive, Tony Weber, acknowledges the strong demand for a variety of vehicle options across various price brackets, that meet the needs of Australians.
“This is an extraordinary result in what is now likely to be an extraordinary record- breaking year. Another record-breaking month underscores the dynamic and competitive nature of Australia’s automotive landscape, showcasing the wide array of choices available to consumers,” Mr Weber said.
“As the challenges of the past year’s supply chain disruptions recede, consumers have greater access to a broad range of choices and increased accessibility in the market.
“The automotive sector remains a testament to the resilience and adaptability of both industry players and consumers alike. However, as cost-of-living pressures hit we may see a market cooling in the coming months, and we anticipate a more challenging 2024.”
Year-to-date sales of battery electric vehicles have reached 80,446. The growth in EV sales from the same time last year (28,326) underscores the increasing interest in low emission alternatives among Australian consumers. EV’s represented 7.7 per cent of the monthly sales and 7.2 per cent of sales year to date.
Toyota was the highest selling marque with 21,002 sales. Mazda followed with 8,707 then Ford (8,165), Hyundai (6,718) and Mitsubishi (6,268).
The top five selling cars in November 2023 were:
- Ford Ranger (6,301)
- Toyota HiLux (5,901)
- Isuzu Ute D-Max (3,692)
- Tesla Model Y (3,151)
- Toyota Prado (3,090) – surprising because this model does not have a valid ANCAP rating.
