IN4RIDE: OCTOBER SALES SHOW SIGNS OF RECOVERY

According to figures released by the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Arica, or NAAMSA for short, sales of new passenger cars increased by 2.5% over September’s figures. An even healthier increase of 25.1% over October 2009 was recorded, signalling positive signs of a recovery in the industry. Total passenger sales were 30 752 for last month.

“Volkswagen Group South Africa has increased passenger sales in the domestic market by 32% year-to-date versus 2009 – 1.9% ahead of the 30.1% total passenger market year-to-date growth, which is testament to our Brand strength in a very competitive market,” said Mike Glendinning, Director of Sales and Marketing at Volkswagen South Africa.

Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa also reported an upswing in its sales for October 2010. The company grew sales by 8.3% over September, while a 12% rise year on year was realised.

“Ford continues to offer a fresh and balanced portfolio of products appealing to South African consumers,” says Vice President Marketing, Sales and Service, Dean Stoneley. “The upgraded Focus performed well in its first full month of sales and the market can look forward to new versions of the Fiesta and Mazda 2 as well as an all-new Mazda5 before the end of the year. These product introductions will certainly continue the attraction for Ford and Mazda as we enter the final stretches of 2010 sales.”

Top Ten Passenger Car Sellers in October 2010

1. Volkswagen Polo Vivo (1 844 units)

2. Toyota Corolla (1 701)

3. Chevrolet Spark (1 418)

4. Mercedes-Benz C-Class (1 162)

5. BMW 3 Series (886)

6. Ford Fiesta (807)

7. Chevrolet Aveo (796)

8. Volkswagen Polo Vivo Sedan (732)

9. Volkswagen Polo (723)

10. Toyota Fortuner (698)

Top Ten Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV) Sellers in October 2010