THE CAR industry, like so many others, finds itself in a difficult moment. James Fairclough, CEO of AA Cars & Financial Services said: “March might go down in history as the most polarised month ever for new car sales.

“It began fairly briskly, with the new licence plates attracting a steady stream of would-be buyers to dealerships. But it ended with the sector on lockdown.

“Many dealers have now closed their doors in line with Government advice, and the motor industry as a whole is entering uncharted territory. Sadly the optimism from the start of the year has disappeared, and March’s 44.4% decline in new car sales is likely to be just the beginning of a sharp contraction of demand. 

“One good sign for the future is the 197.4% rise in electric vehicle sales, with more than 11,000 sold in March”

CEO of AA Cars & Financial Services

“Car buyers continue to research and view cars for sale online, and can still purchase online if necessary. Many dealers will be able to arrange a “virtual” online view of the car and will be happy to transact online and deliver the car to you. 

“One good sign for the future is the 197.4% rise in electric vehicle sales, with more than 11,000 sold in March. This indicates welcome growth in interest from drivers and we hope this will continue once social distancing measures end.

“The motor industry, like virtually every sector of the economy, is going to face unprecedented challenges in the weeks and months ahead. Hopefully the industry will be ready to start selling cars again as soon as circumstances allow.”