Car sales outperformed expectations in March

Despite fears over “unlucky” 13 number plates, car sales increased by 6per cent in March.

09:57 06 May 2013

Car sales increased by 6per cent in March. This is despite fears that the new 'unlucky' 13 number plate would scare buyers away.

Research conducted before March’s 13 plate launch suggested that car sales would be affected due to superstitious drivers who said that they will boycott the cars as they fear bad luck. However, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders have confirmed that March 2013 car sales have beat expectations with 394,806 new registrations.

The best-selling model, which sold 22,748 units is Ford Fiesta. Vauxhall Corsa came in second with 16,169 sales while Ford Focus is at number 3 with 15,434.

Of all the cars sold, 202,249 run on petrol and 187,239 on diesel. The rest were hybrid or electric.

SMMT interim boss Mike Baunton told the BBC: “New car registrations out-performed expectations in March.

 

Despite economic concerns, consistent monthly growth is an ¬encouraging sign of returning consumer confidence.”