SO far this has been a challenging year for the motoring industry with new car sales having their second-weakest six months since records began.
There has been demand for van sales as online shopping surges, creating opportunities for courier drivers, however, new car sales have remained persistently low.
The latest report on new car sales from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reported an increase in transactions of 5 per cent month-on-month during June.
This performance continues the improving trend of the last few months, and with restrictions lifting, it is hoped these figures can continue to improve.
Small cars seem to be in vogue with Northern Ireland motorists, with the Ford Fiesta being the most popular so far in 2021 with 501 new models being purchased.
In second place was the ever-popular Volkswagen Golf with 496 sold. In June, the Ford Puma was popular with buyers with 120 being bought followed by the Volkswagen T-Roc with 112 sales.
In total there were 4,075 cars sold in Northern Ireland in June with 20,845 registered from January to June.
With showrooms now re-opened across Northern Ireland, consumer demand for new cars is growing.
However, it is being held back by a global shortage of computer chips, a key component in modern cars and this is having an impact on supply.
The shortage is also having a knock-on effect on the second-hand trade. With fewer new cars coming into the supply chain there is less stock for smaller dealers to access.
With waiting lists for some new models, now could be the time to think about changing your car as you have the opportunity to shop around. It could be a case of signing a contract this year with a delivery date in 2022.
One benefit of having to wait for your new car is the opportunity you will have to speak to an insurance broker to ensure you get the cover which is best for you. The best brokers can tailor your car insurance to suit your needs.
A fully comprehensive policy can cover damage to your vehicle and any injury or damage caused to third party vehicles in the event of an accident.
Third party fire and theft policies cover your vehicle for loss or damage due to fire or theft as well as injury or damage to third parties. A third party only policy covers third party injury or damage to their vehicles.
As Northern Ireland’s largest insurance broker, AbbeyAutoline will help you assess any additional elements of cover you may need, so you have tailored packages that safeguard you.
:: Jeni McKelvey is personal lines director at AbbeyAutoline (www.abbeyautoline.co.uk)
