Sales of new cars in April were almost double that of last year, thanks largely to the effects of the scrappage scheme. SIMI figures show just over 8,500 units were sold in April, boosting the year to date figure to 50,906, some 38% up on last year.

In the commercial sector, van sales are now up a third on last year, while truck sales remain disappointing, down 30%. Smaller A and B category cars are accounting for most sales.  

Meanwhile government figures show, that year to date, €6.5 million has been paid out on scrappage scheme incentives. This means 4,500 cars have been bought through the scheme. Commenting on the latest figures SIMI director general Alan Nolan said, “There is a real sense that the worst is behind the industry.  We are on course for sales of around 75,000 new cars this year and it hopefully won’t be long before we return to around 100,000 per year.” He added that he expects another peak in scrappage sales before the year end.