Britain was just as hard struck as every other European nation by the economic downturn. It’s had its fair share of tax increases, bankruptcies and credit problems. However, it’s auto segment is showing signs of recovery.
According to data released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), sales increased 8.2 percent to 359,612 vehicles in September 2012 compared to the same month last year.
Meanwhile, there’s sign of increasing pessimism in Europe, as most major automakers are seeing no return to growth within the next year. As the old continent falls to levels not seen in decades, the UK bucks the trend and looks like a beacon of hope.
"The important September plate change market outperformed expectations with new car registrations increasing more than 8% on last year to 359,612 units. Although the economic outlook remains challenging, we are starting to see a tentative return of consumer confidence as motorists explore new products and the latest fuel-efficient technologies," SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said in a statement.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?
Google News