Logistical problems remain persistent
The chip shortage and logistical problems continue to leave their mark on European car sales. Figures from the European trade association ACEA show that the number of new cars registered in February fell by almost 7 percent compared to last year. Volkswagen remains the market leader, followed by Toyota and Peugeot.
A total of 719,465 new cars were registered in the European Union last month. That is 6.7 percent less than last year and also the worst February ever recorded by ACEA. The disappointing sales are mainly the result of the ongoing chip shortage and related logistical problems. As a result, fewer cars are produced than intended. Manufacturers are currently also experiencing the consequences of the war in Ukraine, but that was not yet the case in February.
The four largest markets in Europe show mixed results. The drop in sales is greatest in Italy and France, at -22.6 and -13 percent respectively. On the other hand, sales in Spain and Germany grew by 6.6 and 3.2 percent. The Netherlands was also positive: 6 percent more cars were sold here in the past month than in February 2021.
Volkswagen remains the market leader of all brands, but the brand has to lose 1.1 percent in market share and arrives at a market share of 10.2 percent. Toyota took a bigger bite in February. The Japanese controlled 6.1 percent of the market in February 2021, now it is 6.7 percent. Peugeot comes in third place in this area with a market share of 6.5 percent. The French only had to give up 1.6 percent market share. In terms of concerns, the Volkswagen Group is 1 with a 24.5 percent market share, followed by Stellantis (21.1 percent) and Groupe Renault (9.6 percent).
Another striking fact, especially given the current war in Ukraine, is that European sales of Lada grew by 47.9 percent in February to 142 units. The Russian brand, which falls under the Renault flag, is expected to receive major blows this month.
– Thanks for information from Autoweek.nl