Latest data from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) shows that June registrations rose 14.6%, continuing the upward trend commenced 22 months ago.

All major markets significantly supported the overall expansion, with Spain (+23.5%), France (+15.0%), Italy (+14.4%), Germany (+12.9%) and the UK (+12.9%) posting double-digit growth. Across the region, new passenger car registrations totalled 1,364,009 units.

For the first half of 2015, new passenger car registrations increased (+8.2%) surpassing 7 million units (7,169,984). All major markets posted growth, contributing to the overall upturn of the EU market over the period.

Registrations in Spain (+22.0%), Italy (+15.2%), the UK (+7.0%), France (+6.1%) and Germany (+5.2%) increased compared to the same period one year ago

Anil Valsan, global analyst, automotive & transportation, EY, said of the figures: “The European car market continued with its growth momentum owing to combination of favorable factors like weakening of Euro, new model launches and a robust economic growth. However, self-registrations and heavy discounting continue to distort the true level of demand in many countries. As we move further into 2015, the European car market is expected to witness moderate growth of 3%-5% during the year. However, a decline in economic confidence due to the Greece crisis may dampen the pace of growth.”