Latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders (SMMT) show that 2,264,737 cars were registered in 2013, up 10.8% on 2012 and exceeding the organisation’s 2.25 million forecast for the year.

Within the fleet sector, full-year registrations rose 5.7% from 1,025,501 to 1,084,279 units whilst December saw an impressive 25.8% rise from 66,960 to 84,213 units.

Meanwhile full-year registrations by the sub-25 “business” sector rose 18.0% from 89,668 to 105,836 units whilst  December business registrations were up 35.9% from 5,617 to 7,631.

Commenting on the news, BVRLA chief executive Gerry Keaney said: ‘Fleet and business sales were responsible for more than 50% of new car registrations, which demonstrates the vital role road transport plays in driving the UK economy.’

The outlook for 2014 is also positive, with small but stable growth forecast. ‘Hopefully this growth will be well balanced. It is vital that vehicle manufacturers take a disciplined approach to self-registrations,’ said Keaney.

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