Data published by the MCIA shows that registrations in December fell short of 2021’s tally by a marginal 1.0%, with the full-year total 1.9% ahead of 2021. When compared to 2019’s pre-pandemic total, 2022 was 8.4% ahead and considering supply constraints, the cost of living crisis and turbulent political backdrop, this is an impressive result.
Recent feedback from dealers suggests that although demand fell throughout December, January started on a positive note with strong enquiry levels. While dealers believe the cost of living crisis is beginning to have more of an effect, it has not significantly hindered demand so far.
Many dealers are cautiously optimistic for the year ahead and there are tentative signs that the availability of new machines is improving, which will come as a welcome relief. However, the recent fall in disposable incomes coupled with rising interest rates appear to have negatively impacted dealer finance penetration.
Demand remains consistent across the board, with smaller capacity machines in particular buoyant at this time of year. New models due for launch in the spring are also generating strong interest.
Paul McDonald
Leisure Vehicles Editor