Financial Times FT.com

New car sales fall 25% as scrappage launches

By John Reed, Motor Industry Correspondent

Published: June 4 2009 10:30 | Last updated: June 4 2009 10:30

Gordon Brown’s vehicle scrappage plan has failed to translate quickly into higher new car sales, which registered their 13th consecutive monthly drop in May, falling by nearly a quarter on a year ago.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said more than 35,000 cars had been ordered under the premier’s scheme since it began on May 18, but it would take time for surging orders to feed into higher registration numbers.

You have viewed your allowance of free articles. If you wish to view more, click the button below.

Read this