Whilst many motor traders have been concerned recently with the introduction of the supposedly unlucky ‘13’ registration plate, those in Scotland are feeling more positive as the amount of new car registrations in the area this year are on the rise. Figures released by the Society of Motor Traders and Manufacturers (SMMT) showed that 5,064 new cars were registered in Scotland during February, which is a 14.4 per cent increase on the same period in 2012.
So far this year, a total of 16,694 new cars have been registered in Scotland, which is a huge jump from the 14,775 reported at the same time in 2012, and motor traders are hoping that this trend will continue throughout the year. Discussing the latest figures, Scottish Motor Trade Association chief executive, Douglas Robertson, said: “Obviously we are very pleased that 2013 has shown such a good start and continues on from the last quarter of 2012.”
“February is of course a low volume month prior to the March registrations, but this gives us genuine belief that with private demand increasing March will be an excellent month. Our members’ showrooms have certainly reported increased footfall over the past month as consumers seek the new plate.” The Society of Motor Traders and Manufacturers have also said that so far, some of the most popular selling vehicles throughout Scotland are all made by the manufacturer Ford, with the Fiesta, Focus and Kia all featuring in the top ten makes sold.
As the new registration is now officially available for customers in the UK, it will be interesting to see how many new cars will be registered with the DVLA, especially as it will either prove or debunk speculations concerning whether the new ‘13’ number plate will have any effect on the motor trade industry. One thing is for sure though, these figures are not only good for motor traders, but also car manufacturers, motor trade insurance providers and after-sales service providers alike, and could also indicate a future improvement of the current economic climate.
