This archive report was first published on 4 November 2021.
Published on November 4, 2021, the UK auto sector reported its worst October sales in 30 years, citing surging inflation, tax rises, and weaker consumer confidence.
According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, Britain's mainly foreign-owned automakers sold a combined 106,265 vehicles in the UK during October, a 24.6% decline compared to the same month in 2020.
Notably, electrified vehicles continue to buck the trend, with almost one in six new cars registered this year capable of zero-emission motoring, growth that is fundamental to the UK's ability to hit its net-zero targets, as stated by SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes.
The global shortage in computer chips, key components in all types of vehicle, has held back global car production in recent months, contributing to the decline in sales.
