Eamonn McCartan (right) and Derek Malone of Rice and Roddy. Photo by Ken Finegan / Newspics
Dundalk car dealerships expressed cautious optimism for the rest of the year after an increase in sales of new and used cars since the easing of closing restrictions, and in July in particular; and the first signs are that August will be a smart month.
“We had a month of July, bigger than expected, for new and used cars,” said Eamonn McCartan, Rice and Roddy Motors, KIA’s main distributors.
“It gives us a little encouragement because we didn’t know what we were going to face.
Eamonn added that consumers were returning, aiming to make a purchase or get a price.
In fact, Rice and Roddy reported that July sales increased 42% compared to the same month in 2019; and that August also had a good time.
There has been interest in the range, specifically in hybrid cars.
Similarly, the valet service has been picked up at the Newry Road facility.
“We are cautiously optimistic,” Eamonn said.
Meanwhile, Blackstone Motors revealed one hundred car sales at its 3 sites in Dundalk Retail Park, Drogheda and Cavan in the first two weeks after reopening in mid-May.
“Sales of used cars have been excellent, while our donations are strong and other people come because they get funding and can also defer bills for 3 months,” Holland said.
Motorists were arriving to pick up the cars they had ordered before the blockade, he said, and although traffic had slowed down, other people were looking for cars online during the crash.
“The new Renault Captur and Clio are doing very well, and the Dachia Duster is promoting well. There are advantages of the three,” Paul said.
“While I’m talking to you, the two Of Us Capturs.
He is also positive about the future, especially if funding arrangements and plans remain good, he is warned that it will be difficult.
In early July, Brian Cooke, executive director of the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI), said:
“It is transparent that 2020 has been a very difficult year to date, with new car registrations falling by 34.5% year-on-year. The new 202 tuition era brings some hope to the industry by providing an opportunity to increase sales.
“Consumers can see the offers of new cars that are incredibly varied and attractive. While pre-orders and inquiries are experiencing positive signs, lack of car rental and procedural considerations around COVID-19 will lead to continued downward stress on demand for new cars.
“In the future, the recovery in the sector will be incredibly complicated with new auto and advertising vehicle registrations at the recession level.
The extension of the government beyond existing maturity dates will play a vital role in all sectors, while for the automotive industry, adjustments in the VRT that inspire motorists to move through low-emission cars have the prospect not only of protecting local employment, but can also inspire the renewal of the national fleet , which will play a vital role in reducing transport emissions.
“VRT rebates can simply revive the industry, increasing demand and increasing overall tax revenue.