New car and new van markets to rise in 2023

Latest forecasts from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) predict an increase in new car and new car sales over the next year.

There are two main reasons for this. First. There is still a large number of pending orders due to shortages and secondly, the continued growth in EV sales as more products enter the market.

Registrations of pure electric cars are expected to grow by 44.1 percent, taking a market share of 19.5 percent, plug-in hybrids will grow by 31.4 percent, increasing their market share to 7.2 percent, and hybrids will grow by 17.5 percent from 11.9 percent.

However I do not expect these figures to be reflected in Devon and Cornwall as we continue to lag behind in developing adequate infrastructure and we do not have a similar proportion of fleet and business vehicles in our area as in the major metropolitan areas.

In fact, until prices come down, range increases, and charging options become more available, many local residents are reluctant to opt for electric vehicles.

At ministerial level, there is still a lack of understanding of the problems in rural areas.

For many, public transport is non-existent, infrequent, or inconvenient and expensive.

When we need to get to school, work, family and friends, the nearest supermarket, or in an emergency, sometimes our car is the only way.

Several of our customers have made it clear that while they intend to go full electric in due course, their next car will be a hybrid.

This gives some power, improves your economy in most cases and reduces your emissions.

Manufacturer-driven growth in SUVs continues, resulting in fewer small cars available.

The response to Ford’s announcement that it will end production of its best-selling car in recent years, the Fiesta, in the second half of 2023 has prompted an influx of orders and questions from customers who don’t understand the decision.

Ford’s answer is that it’s not possible to incorporate a battery platform and like all manufacturers is converting their production lines to produce electric vehicles.

The pressure on vans is also increasing, especially in many cities where congestion charges are being introduced.

A number of new products are coming onto the market and the vehicles required to deliver online purchases will be forced to be electric to minimize their costs and increase sales of new vans.

Finally on that subject, revenues in Devon and Cornwall mean the cost of buying and running an electric car is more difficult and energy costs have skyrocketed, which is another reason for the postponement.

As with any change, it is best to speak to your local supplier and let them know your requirements and the best way to go.

There is no substitute for good advice from someone you can trust.