Car sales in Ireland for the first six months of the year have fallen by more than a third compared to 2019.
The Society of the Irish Motor Industry revealed today that there have been 52,891 new car registrations this year down 34.5% on last year.
June saw just 1,011 cars registered down a whopping 28.2% on the same period last year.
Toyota remains the most popular car brand for new purchases this year followed by Volkswagen, Hyundai, Skoda and Ford.
The Toyota Corolla is the most purchased car in 2020 with the Hyundai Tucson, Volkswagen Tiguan, Ford Focus and Hyundai Kona making up the list.
Light Commercials vehicles (LCV) were down 24.1% compared to June last year and year to date are down 30.9%.
HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) registrations are down 67.9% in comparison to June 2019 and are down 32% for the year as a whole.
Used car imports for June saw a decrease of 47.1% on last year while year to date imports are down 57.1% on 2019.
Brian Cooke, SIMI Director General said
“ Clearly 2020 has been a very difficult year to date, with new car registrations down 34.5% year on year.
"The new 202-registration period commences today, which brings some hope for the Industry by providing an opportunity to increase sales. Consumers can see already the hugely varied and attractive new car offers.
"While pre-orders and enquiries are showing some positive signs, the lack of car hire and the ongoing concerns surrounding COVID-19 will see continuing downward pressure on new car demand."
The Director acknowledged the rest of the year will remain tough and they will be heavily reliant on Government supports.
Mr Cooke added: "Going forward, recovery for the sector will be extremely challenging with both new car and commercial vehicle registrations at recession levels.
"Extension of Government supports beyond the current expiry dates will play an important role across all sectors, while for the Motor Industry changes in VRT that encourage motorists to trade up to a lower emitting car have the potential not only to protect local employment, but can also encourage renewal of the national vehicle fleet, which will play an important role in reducing emissions from transport.
"VRT reductions could help kick-start the Industry, increase demand and increase the overall tax take.”
