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New Car Sales Crash!
Well figures released today confirm what most in the industry had been expecting. A big fall in new vehicle sales for October.
Precisely 79,105 new vehicles were delivered in October down 11.4% on the year below. Year to date, sales are down just 0.9% compared with this time in 2007. Of course we all know why the sudden drop – the global economic downturn is making Australians have second thoughts before making such a purchase.
It’s interesting to ponder whether people are forgoing these purchases because they actually have less cash to spend or is it the fear of what the future holds that is keeping them back. I suspect it’s the latter more than anything which is a worry in itself as every industry suffers when confidence is stripped back.
I doubt next month’s figures are going to look all that much better either. Interest rate cuts should help in some ways but it’s important to remember that with new vehicle sales, deliveries are (on average) usually around a month or so from the order. So October’s figures really represent many commitments that buyers made in September. So there could be more bad news to report this time next month.
The irony is, however that due to this fear & falling profits manufacturers and dealers are keener than ever to move stock and as such we’ve been seeing some pretty unusual levels of discounting. In fact, you could say it’s a buyer’s market out there after all.
VE COMMODORE
The Holden VE Commodore holds a special place in the hearts of all Australians. It is a true piece of Australiana and we can take pride in the fact that this vehicle is 100% home grown.
The VE Commodore is renowned for being the ideal family car, not only because of its exemplary safety features but because of its reasonable price, reliability and comfortable interior.
The new VE Commodores have all the same safety features as the old VZ model, including ABS, electronic brake distribution, brake assist, dual airbags and independent rear suspension.
But the even better news is that curtain airbags and ESP (electronic stability program) will be standard in the new model VE Commodore.
The new models include the Omega, the SS V, and the Calais V, all of which are available for less than $60,000. (Not including on-road costs)
No wonder this vehicle is Australia’s bestselling car.
The new SS V is sure to be a hit with customers, with a 6.0 litre V8 engine; this model is available in six-speed automatic and six-speed manual. It is the most powerful standard Holden ever produced.
The 3.6 litre V6 in the Omega is expected to be the biggest seller for Holden, and is available for as little as $34,990.
Finally, the Calais V is only available in automatic transmission, but is available in both V6 and V8 engines. With more luxury than ever before this powerful vehicle will feel more like an Audi or a BMW than a Holden.
The interior of the VE Commodore is a sight for sore eyes. The sports car-like seats, and the smooth, sophisticated finish gives this car the feel of a much more luxurious (and expensive) vehicle.
The new range is also fitted with all-new heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems, and Bluetooth is standard on all models except for the Omega. So if you’re looking to upgrade and want more for your money, the VE Commodore range is for you.
For Commodore lovers and first-time buyers alike, this car will not disappoint. The VE Ute provides an alternative for those looking for something with a bit more usability.
BMW
One of BMW’s most important arrivals in years, the fifth generation BMW 3-Series takes one of the world’s most iconic cars to the next level.
The E-90 (replacing the E46) introduces a number of improvements to the engine, chassis, safety and comfort of BMW’s flagship car.
One of the most significant developments is the use of new materials: a lightweight magnesium engine combined with an aluminum front suspension helps reduce weight and improve efficiency.
The engine maximises fuel efficiency with BMW’s own variable valve timing system (or Valvetronic) now able to adjust infinitely, meaning fuel is saved without compromising power.
A six speed gearbox means an extra gear and therefore a wider spread of ratios, offering the driver greater acceleration, particularly at takeoff.
The body stays true to its 30-year heritage, with the classic BMW front still distinguishable despite its slick modern makeover.
Other classic BMW characteristics carried over include rear wheel drive and a perfect axle load distribution of 50:50.
Safety improvements abound, with recent innovations such as electronic stability control and curtain airbags made standard.
As usual the interior features luxury, comfort and space which belie its compact sedan exterior.
Dashboards with woodgrain trim, the intelligent iDrive control system (complete with sat nav) and comfortable, spacious seating are all hallmarks of the new 3-Series.
BMW lovers will rejoice at the fact that their most celebrated model has finally caught up with (and overtaken) its rivals in terms of performance and design.
30 years in the making, featuring everything we have come to expect from BMW’s line of cars and exceeding expectations with many new innovations, the BMW E-90 is the picture of luxury and elegance.
Brighter May Sales Figures
We can happily report the first bit of good sales news in many, many months.
The Government’s 30percent and 50 percent tax incentives seem to have worked, if recent sales patterns are a guide.
The new car market is showing clear signs of recovery. Whilst sales were down 15 percent year on year for May this compared favourably with the 20percent drop in the first four months of the year.
The Government is giving big business a 30 percent tax rebate on car purchases, providing orders are placed by 30th June 2009, whilst small business ($2mil p.a. or less) will enjoy a 50 percent tax bonus extending to December 2009 on their vehicle purchases.
So who were the big winners in May?
Four wheel drives did well, but the most impressive figures came from Korean car maker, Hyundai, who recorded a huge 32 percent sales lift, led by the highly popular i30 small car.
This has clearly surprised many manufacturers and importers as dealers are reporting stock shortages throughout Australia.
Particularly affected are Honda dealers who have suffered a 60 percent reduction in their allocation this month.
June sales, therefore, may well depend on stock availability rather that pure demand
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