If the recent rise in interest rates wasn’t enough, there is more angst in store for those looking to upgrade their wheelset.
There was more bad news for new car buyers today as the stock shortage continues to affect the auto industry.
New car sales fell 12.2% last month as the global shortage of semiconductors and the closure of Covid-related factories put a strain on supply.
The shortage of stocks means that the current long waiting lists for new car buyers, which in some cases extend up to 12 months, are expected to continue.
The imbalance between supply and demand means that prices for new and used cars will continue to remain high, while rising interest rates will add another hurdle for potential buyers.
The CEO of the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, Tony Weber, said that despite the decline in sales, demand for new cars remained strong.
“We know this is not a reflection on the demand for new vehicles on the market. This is a reflection on the ability of the global automotive industry to supply vehicles not only to the Australian market, but to all markets around the world, ”she said.
Nissan CEO Adam Peterson said the offering is unlikely to return to healthy levels until next year.
“The anticipation of the product is becoming a reality for Australians across the country, regardless of brand. It’s the new normal, “she said.
He said waiting times for the brand’s Nissan Navara and X-Trail extended from three to six months, while Patrol buyers typically waited four to five months.
Waiting times depended on “finish, color and position”.
He said Nissan was in a better position than a number of competitors.
“We have supplies that arrive reasonably regularly and we think we are in a relatively competitive position based on some of the availability that some competitors have,” he said.
Utes continued to dominate the market in April. The Toyota HiLux, Australia’s best-selling vehicle over the past six years, was the best-selling, followed by the Ford Ranger. Isuzu’s D-Max ute and Mitsubishi Triton also entered the top six, while the massive Toyota LandCruiser finished in the top ten.
Year-to-date sales fell 3.5% compared to the first four months of 2021.
Toyota was the market leader in April, followed by Mazda and Mitsubishi.
TOP 10 BEST SELLING CARS IN APRIL
Toyota HiLux 4493
Ford Ranger 3581
Toyota RAV4 3373
Mazda CX-5 2701
Isuzu D Max 2357
Mitsubishi Triton 2357
Toyota Corolla 2202
Hyundai i30 2071
MG ZS 1923
Toyota Land Cruiser 1665
THE 10 BEST BRANDS SOLD IN APRIL
Toyota 17,956
Mazda 7378
Mitsubishi 6463
Kia 6180
Hyundai 5552
Ford 4974
MG 4773
Isuzu 3032
Mercedes Benz 2307
Nissan 2050
Originally published as New car sales decline as supply problems continue to plague the industry