Australia auto sales for July stood at 84,161units, 16pc higher than the same month a year ago, according to data released by the auto association, Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI). The country’s COVID-19 restrictions and sustained supply chain disruptions impacted auto sales.
Auto sales in Queensland, Victoria, Western Australia, and Northern Territory witnessed a jump of 20pc over the prior year, while sales in New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory dipped. Auto markets remained strong despite lockdowns at major retail locations, said FCAI.
Semiconductor delivery issues continue to affect the auto sector with shortages and shipping delays.
Sales of light commercial segment sales jumped 40.9pc in July to 20,994 units. SUV sales increased 15pc in July to 42,020 units while heavy commercial vehicles sales rose 21pc to 3,528 vehicles.
EV and plug-in hybrid vehicles experienced strong demand in states including Victoria and NSW. Victoria’s EV sales jumped 191pc and PHEV rose 161pc from a year ago. NSW’s EV sales zoomed 260pc while PHEV sales rose 84.9pc in July over the prior year.
Top five manufacturers
Toyota maintained the top position with 17,643 units sold. Mazda sold 8,919 vehicles. Ford was the third-largest seller, with 5,569 units sold. Mitsubishi and Kia filled the next spots with 5,302 units and 5,202 units sold, respectively, in July.