In September, 83,312 new cars were sold which is an increase of around 21% on the same period last year. The total sales number YTD is 816,140 which means the industry is heading towards one million new cars in a year impacted by lockdowns and significant supply disruptions.
Hybrids have continued their rise in 2021 with 55,257 sold YTD compared to 40,657 in the same period last year. Electric vehicles are increasing in volume with 3,568 sold so far this year and volume will continue to grow with the State Government purchase incentives in NSW starting from 1st September.
All buyer segments are up compared to 2020 with rental companies leading the charge with 109.8% growth compared to the same period last year.
The demand from online shopping also appears to driving an increase in heavy commercial vehicle sales. Kenworth makes big trucks locally and is up 49.8%. While Hino, Isuzu and Fuso, which provide the medium sized trucks for last mile deliveries, have all posted double digit increases.
Victoria recorded an increase of 96% on vehicles sold during September 2020. The Northern Territory, Queensland, Tasmania, South Australia and Western Australia all recorded positive growth greater than 16 per cent. The ACT was down 35% and New South Wales was down 8%.
Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries Chief Executive Tony Weber said that the global microprocessor shortage, compounded by local Covid-19 restrictions, was continuing to impact across Australia.
“To see an increase of 21 per cent on 2020 figures is definitely encouraging news. For many manufacturers it is bittersweet with the knowledge of what could have been achieved in a normal trading environment.” Mr Weber said.
“These are challenging times, but automotive manufacturers are rising to meet them. Brands are working across their supply chains to deal with microprocessor issues and consumers are embracing online purchasing through click and collect delivery options.
“In many respects these figures give the industry great encouragement and excitement for what will be possible in 2022 when lockdowns will hopefully be a thing of the past.”
“The Sports Utility Market is up by 25% and the Light Commercial Market up 27%. With over 150 models on offer in these segments, competition amongst brands is delivering the best technology and lowest prices for Australian families looking to break out of lockdown with a road trip.” Mr Weber added.
Toyota was market leader in September with 24% of overall sales. Mazda, Ford and Hyundai followed with recordings of 8, 7 and 6.5 per cent respectively.
The top five selling vehicles in September 2021 were:
- Ford Ranger – 4,192
- Toyota Hilux – 3,635
- Toyota Corolla – 3,487
- Toyota RAV4 – 3,390
- Toyota Prado – 2,173
