Australia recorded auto sales of 95,652 units in December, up 13.5pc from the previous year according to the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI).
In 2020, auto sales stood at 916,969 units in Australia, down 13.7pc compared to 2019. A downfall in auto sales was already expected due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its financial impact states FCAI.
Sales in December, however, were up by 0.47pc or 447 units from 95,205 units in November. In November, sales had increased by 12.4pc from the prior-year period.
FCAI chief executive, Tony Weber, states that the positive auto sales growth is a great relief for the industry, and the economy despite the pandemic in 2020.
SUV’s claimed the highest market share in 2020 of 49pc or 454,701 units. Sales were still down by 6pc from 2019. Light commercial vehicles had the second-largest share with 205,597 units, down 8pc from the previous year. Passenger vehicle sales were 222,103 units, down 29.7pc in 2020 from a year ago. The share of passenger vehicles stood at 24.2pc.
Brand-wise, Toyota sold the highest number of vehicles with 204,801 units of 22.3pc market share. Mazda sold 85,640 units accounting for 9.3pc, Hyundai’s share stood at 7.1pc with 64,807 units followed by Ford, 59,601 units of 6.5pc market share. Sales by Mitsubishi were 58,335 units, or 6.4pc of market share, according to FCAI data.