New car sales in the EU fell by 24pc in January on an annual basis to 726,491 units due to the impact of COVID-19 related shutdowns across the member nations.
The European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) noted that almost all the member countries saw double-digit declines, with Spain affected the worst last month at 51pc lower car sales. However, sales in Sweden rose by 22.5pc to 20,573 units.
The Volkswagen Group posted a 26.8pc drop in January sales to 186,889 units, compared to last year. Meanwhile, the newly formed Stellantis also saw a 26pc fall in sales to 164,575 units in January.