U.K. New-Vehicle Sales Continue Record Pace in November

The uncertainty over the U.K.’s impending exit from the European Union failed to slow traffic in new-vehicle showrooms in November, with sales rising 2.9% year-on-year to 184,101 units.

The result pushed the 11-month total up 2.5% to 2,514,764.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders says it’s the first time the 2.5 million milestone has been reached in November.

Demand for alternatively fueled vehicles grew 25.1% in November to 6,663 units for a record 3.6% market share.

“It's encouraging to see that alternatively fueled vehicles, although still a small proportion of the market, have seen strong growth (and) achieving a record market share,” SMMT CEO Mike Hawes says in a statement.

“Long-term government support and incentives are essential if these vehicles are to command a larger market share in the future.”

The Ford Fiesta continued as the runaway sales leader in November with 8,382 units, well ahead of the Vauxhall Astra (4,829) and Volkswagen Golf (4,663)

With a month to go in the year, the Fiesta, in its eighth year as the U.K.’s best-selling car, has delivered 112,327 units, ahead of the Vauxhall Corsa (73,172)s and Ford Focus (65,554).