The take away headlines from recent car sales figures released by the SIMI were that overall new car sales struggled in May at 6403, dropping 15% on the 2023 figures and EV sales were dramatically down with a 39% drop for the same month in the previous year. Mentioned as almost a small aside is the fact that there were 5514 used car imports, yet this is of far more significance to the vast majority of garages than the new registrations. 

The 5514 figure is the highest it has been since June 21, back before the full impact of Brexit tariffs kicked in. The rising trend shows how vehicle importers, dealers and private buyers are now really getting to grips with the new regulations and finding more economical ways the bring cars in to the country, from not only the UK, but also Japan in very significant numbers. 

Although serious questions are starting to be asked about the headlong push towards EVs, the dealer narrative is still very much about pushing electrification. However, the cars far more likely to find their way into independent garages in the coming years are the petrol, diesel and hybrid models being imported. So far this year 46% of imports have been petrol models, 25% diesel, 26% hybrid and 2.7% full EV. 

With regard to makes and models, it is German manufacturers that account for most imports, with compact models such as the VW Golf and Polo and the Audi A3 being the most popular. The BMW 3 and 5 series also feature in the top ten imported models. Japanese origin cars such as the Honda Fit and Toyota Vitz also remain very popular. 

The figures may not be great news for car manufacturers, but are good news for most aftermarket companies, with these imports being out or warranty vehicles that will need regular service and maintenance. It seems likely that in June used imports and new cars sales may hit parity, before new registrations see a 242 bounce in July.