Europe’s ‘Big 5’ markets posted double digit growth in May thanks to strong increases in four of the five markets analysed, continuing the positive trend seen over the last 15 months, says Jato Dynamics.
Registrations for the month totalled 969,100 units, 15% up on the volume recorded in May 2015, the second highest percentage growth rate of the year so far. The total YTD volume grew by 9.7% to 4.82 million cars, the highest percentage increase in 10 years.
Germany posted its highest May sales since 2012, with total registrations growing by 12% to 287,000 units. The UK was the second largest market, but political andeconomic uncertainty cooled the demand, resulting in an increase of just 2%.
Italy posted outstanding growth of 28% at 189,000 units, its highest May total since 2009. This strong showing meant Italy outperformed France to become the third largest market in Europe for the year to date, despite the 22% rise posted by France in May.
The 175,800 units registered in France represent its highest May sales since 2014. Spain continued to grow, reporting a 19% increase in May, its second highest monthly increase this year.
Renault was the outstanding brand, shooting past Ford into second place and a very short way behind European leader Volkswagen.
