The amount of new cars sold in Europe last month showed an almost 10 per cent rise from a year ago, according to industry figures.

The European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) revealed that total new passenger car registrations in Europe in May amounted to 1,422,408 units, which represents an increase of 9.6 per cent on the May 2005 figure.

"This result is encouraging, although also due to the fact that most countries had one or two working days more with respect to May last year," the body said as it announced the figures.

Cumulative figures for the first five months of 2006 also reflected an increase in car demand, with sales 2.4 per cent higher than in 2005 across Europe.


Four out of the five main European markets posted an increase in sales during May. Italy's increase was dramatic at 49.5 per cent, but the ACEA said that it was largely attributable to the fact that May last year was disrupted by the strike of new car transporters.

Germany experienced an 8.7 per cent rise, the UK a 1.1 per cent increase and Spain saw a 0.5 per cent boost to sales.

Only France reported a loss for May 2006, of 3.3 per cent.

Ÿ Adfero Ltd