July new car sales: Winners & Losers

BYD was a key driving force in the July new car market with sales up 315% to 3,184 units in an overall UK car market down 4.9% for the month.

The Chery owned Chinese brands Jaecoo and Omoda turned in strong performances, selling 1,915 and 1,874 cars respectively from a standing start, according to data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders.

MINI also turned in a significant performance with sales increasing 46.6% to 4,408 units, followed by Stellantis owned Peugeot, which rose 33.4% to 6,179 units.

Within the VW Group Skoda and Cupra saw sales rise 30.2% and 30.1% to 6,772 and 3,639 respectively.

Lexus rose 24.6% to 1,177 and Ford saw its volumes increase 16.5% to 9,106 unit for the month.

July also saw some brands in negative territory. Tesla took a 59.9% hit for the month with sales falling to 987 units while Volkswagen owned SEAT declined 54% to 1,470 units.

Honda also saw double-digit decline, down 46.2% to 1,314 units. Japanese brand Suzuki saw sales decline 43.6% to 1,063 units while Fiat and Citroen fell 43.2%  and 41.3% to 431 and 1,143 respectively.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said, “July’s dip shows yet again the new car market’s sensitivity to external factors, and the pressing need for consumer certainty.

“Confirming which models qualify for the new EV grant, alongside compelling manufacturer discounts on a huge choice of exciting new vehicles, should send a strong signal to buyers that now is the time to switch. That would mean increased demand for the rest of this year and into next, which is good news for the industry, car buyers and our environmental ambitions.”