Demand for new cars in the E* declined for the second month this year in May (-9.3%), reflecting the end to government support schemes on the one hand and the further challenging economic situation on the other. Five months into the year, the EU counted 1.9% more vehicles than over the same period a year ago. The cumulative total amounted to 5,943,096 new cars.

In May, 1,129,508 vehicles were registered in the EU*. While Germany registered the most cars, it also recorded the biggest decrease (-35.1%) in registrations of all major markets, followed by Italy (-13.8%) and France (-11.5%). The UK (+13.5%) and Spain (+44.6%) increased registrations compared to the low levels observed last year. Slovakia saw its market shrink the most (-41.8%) while Ireland expanded the most (+70.6%).

From January to May, new car registrations totaled 5,943,096 units. Of the most important markets, Germany was the only one recording a downturn (-27.7%). France (+7.2%), Italy (+7.9%), the UK (+22.0%) and Spain (+43.5%) all posted growth. The largest increase was noted in Portugal (+56.3%) while the steepest decline was found in Romania (-49.0%).