UK registrations fell 27 percent to 113,781 last month, according to data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the steepest decline since a 35 percent plunge in June.
Dealers have been dependent on the online-focused "click and collect" option to sell and deliver vehicles after the latest coronavirus-induced lockdown forced them to shut showrooms again.
The sales total was the lowest November result in the UK since 2008.
England imposed a four-week lockdown that shuttered all non-essential stores after soaring COVID-19 infections risked overwhelming the health care system. Other regions of the UK, including Wales and Scotland, imposed similar measures.
"With a vaccine now approved, the business and consumer confidence on which this sector depends can only improve, giving the industry more optimism for the turn of the year," SMMT CEO Mike Hawes said.
The UK's auto industry is also reeling as the country prepares to exit the European Union at the end of the year. Negotiators have been unable to reach a deal to avert the levying of tariffs on vehicles and parts.
The SMMT has called on negotiators to avoid a no-deal Brexit, saying failure to do so could cost the sector 55.4 billion pounds ($74 billion) in tariffs by 2025 and undercut its ability to develop the next generation of zero-emissions vehicles.
In this episode of the Ally All Ears podcast, host Emma Hancock interviews Kelly Olson, Senior Director of Operations for SmartAuction at Ally Financial, about the importance of quality control in online wholesale auctions. Olson discusses advancements in online auction platforms, highlighting the importance of detailed condition reports, AI technology for damage detection, and the evolving incorporation of electric vehicle information, all aimed at building trust and reliability for dealers purchasing pre-owned inventory.
Brand winners/losers
Almost all of the major brands in the UK saw losses last month, with the exception of Porsche, which increased sales by 17 percent.
UK market leader Ford dropped 35 percent, followed by Volkswagen brand, at No. 2, which had a 34 percent decline. Third-place BMW was down 16 percent. Audi, at No. 4, dropped 9.3 percent. Rounding out the top five was Vauxhall, which recorded a 25 percent decrease in November sales.
- Download UK November sales by brand here.
- Download UK November sales by brand
- here
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Among other brands, Mercedes-Benz sales dropped 25 percent; Hyundai's registrations fell 57 percent, while sister brand Kia was down 38 percent. Jaguar fell 19 percent, while Land Rover dipped 24 percent and Mini's volume slid 15 percent.
The UK market is down 31 percent to 1.5 million registrations in the first 11 months.
Bloomberg and Reuters contributed to this report
