Australian & New Zealand March 2006 Car Sales Results

**JoeT** · 04-05-2006, 04:10 AM

Motor Vehicle Market Rebounds In March

Federal Chamber Of Automotive Industries
5 April 2006
www.fcai.com.au

The Australian motor vehicle market has shown its resilience by setting a new record for the month of March.

The industry shrugged off a slight sales dip in February to record a total of 87,156 last month – up 0.6 per cent on the previous record set in 2005.

At the end of the first quarter total sales were 234,605 – down 2887 or 1.2 per cent on the same period last year.

The first-quarter result is actually very good when you consider that the industry set sales records in two out the three months, said the chief executive of the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), Peter Sturrock.

At this early stage sales have put the industry on track to meet the Chamber’ s forecast of 980,000 for the year.

Last year the industry set a new record total of 988,269 – the fourth year in a row that sales has reached record levels.

The biggest trend in the market remains the boom in Light car sales – which were up 19.9 per cent in March and 22.3 per cent for the first quarter.

Higher fuel prices are clearly having an influence on buying patterns but there’ s more to it than simply that, said Mr Sturrock.

The new generation of comparatively safer and better-equipped Light cars is attracting entry-level motorists who might previously have bought a second-hand vehicle.

Mr Sturrock said the effect of fuel prices was obvious in the sales of the previously booming Sports Utility Market, which was down 9.0 per cent in the first quarter.

The trend for the Medium and Large car segments was also softer with Medium cars below $55,000 down 8.7 per cent for the year to date and Large cars below $80,000 down 17.6 per cent.

The release of new models has a positive effect on how various segments fare, and we’ re hopeful that Medium and Large car sales will pick up when new product is launched in the second half of the year, said Mr Sturrock.

The Light Commercial Vehicle sales have been one of the other drivers of overall market growth.

LCV sales were up 12.8 per cent last month and 6.7 per cent for the first quarter.

Commercial vehicle sales remain remarkably robust, despite evidence elsewhere of some softening in economic conditions, said Peter Sturrock.

The willingness to buy new light trucks suggests there’ s still plenty of confidence amongst business, he said.

Toyota was market leader in March with 18,649 sales, ahead of Holden (13,555) and Ford (11,118).

At the end of the first quarter Toyota leads Holden by 10,842.

VFACTS INDUSTRY SUMMARY - MARCH 2006

The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries issues the following summary for the retail sales performance of the automotive industry for March 2006, based on the industryâ?? s standard retail report, VFACTS.
The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries advises that the forecast for 2006 is 980,000 vehicles.

The March 2006 industry volume of 87,156, sets a new record for a March month, the previous record of 86,638 was set last year, and is up, 518 vehicles or 0.6% on March 2005. March 2006 (26.6) had 2 more selling days than March (24.6) 2005, resulting in a decrease of 245.3 vehicles per day or 7.0%.

The March 2006 market is up 9,710 (12.5%) on February (77,446 vehicles). March (26.6) had 2.6 selling days more than February (24.0), resulting in an increase of 49.6 vehicles per day or 1.5%. The March volume equates to a SAAR of 1.007 Million vehicle sales.

The Passenger Vehicle Market fell by 94 vehicle sales (-0.2%) over the same month last year, the Sports Utility Vehicle Market, fell by 1,558 vehicle sales (-8.9%), whilst the Light Truck Market, increased by 1,697 vehicle sales (12.8%) and the Heavy Commercial Vehicle Market increased by 473 vehicle sales (17.8%) over March 2005.

Toyota was market leader in March, followed by Holden and Ford. Year-to-date Toyota leads Holden with a margin of 10,842 vehicle sales, or 4.6 market share points.

The year-to-date 2006 market of 234,605 vehicles is running below the same period in 2005 by 1.2% or 2,887 vehicle sales. With 2.0 more selling days than 2005, the daily selling rate decreased by 126.4 vehicle sales per day or 3.9%. This equates to a YTD SAAR of 1.007 Million vehicles.

The Passenger Market at 145,432 vehicles is down by 1,565 vehicles (-1.1%). This equates to a YTD SAAR of 0.616 Million vehicles. Mixed results by segment show that, whilst increases were returned by, the Light car segment up, 5,079 (22.3%); the Small car segment up, 622 (1.2%); the People mover segment up, 146 (3.9%) and the Upper Large car segment up, 92 (5.8%), the Large car segment down, 6,896 (-16.6%); the Sports car segment down, 372 (-7.6%) and the Medium car segment down, 236 (-1.1%), failed to improve on their volumes for the same period last year. The Sports Utility Vehicle Market at 43,653 vehicles is down by 4,204 vehicles (-9.%), in year-to-date terms. This equates to a YTD SAAR of 0.179 Million vehicles. All segments except the SUV Luxury segment which is up, 876 (25.4%), failed to improve on the same period in 2005, with the SUV Medium segment down, 2,288 (-13.2%); the SUV Large segment down, 1,909 (-35.2%) and the SUV Compact segment down, 883 (-4.3%).

The Light Truck Market at 39,580 vehicles is running 2,486 vehicles (6.7%) ahead, in year-to-date terms. This equates to a YTD SAAR of 0.179 Million vehicles. All segments with the exception of the Van segment down, 23 vehicles (-0.5%) are experiencing growth, with the Pick-up/Cab Chassis 4X4 segment up, 1,891 (14.0%); the Light bus segment up, 357 vehicles (163.8%); the Pick-up/Cab Chassis 4X2 segment up, 182 vehicles (1.0%) and the 2.5 Tonne truck segment up, 79 vehicles (25.7%), improved on their 2005 volumes. The Heavy Truck Market at 6,940 vehicles is up on the same period in 2005 by, 396 vehicles or 6.1%.

MONTHLY RESULTS

The Passenger Vehicle Market is down 94 vehicle sales or 0.2%. The PMV market volume equates to a SAAR of 0.611 Million vehicle sales. Mixed results were experienced amongst the segments with improved performances shown in the Light car segment, up 1,63 vehicle sales (19.9%); the People mover segment, up 790 vehicle sales (61.7%); the Small car segment, up 369 vehicle sales (2.0%); Medium car segment, up 125 vehicle sales (1.7%) and the Upper Large car segment, up 107 vehicle sales (17.8%), whilst the Large car Segment, down 2,948 vehicle sales (-18.3%) and the Sports car segment, down 140 vehicle sales (-8.4%), failed to achieve their 2005 volumes. The Sports Utility Vehicle Market is down 1,558 vehicle sales or 8.9% versus March 2005. The SUV market volume equates to SAAR of 0.179 million vehicle sales. Again mixed results by segment were evident, with all segments except the SUV Luxury segment which is up 368 vehicle sales (29.3%), failing to improve on their 2005 result, with the SUV Medium segment, down 825 (-12.5%); the SUV Large segment, down 600 vehicle sales (-3.2%) and the SUV Compact segment, down 51 vehicle sales (-6.6%). The Light Truck Market returned an increase of 1,697 vehicle sales or 12.8% over March 2005. The LCV market volume equates to SAAR of 0.178 million vehicle sales. All segments contributed to this increase with the Pick-up/Cab Chassis 4x4 segment up 1,104 vehicle sales (22.9%); Pick-up/Cab Chassis 4X2 segment, up 262 vehicle sales (4.1%); the Light Bus segment, up 195 (375.%); Van segment, up 125 vehicle sales (6.8%) and the 2.5 Tonne truck segment, 11 vehicle sales (10.0%), on their 2005 volume levels. The Heavy Truck Market is down 473 vehicle sales or 17.8%, when compared with the same month in 2005. This volume includes 168 Iveco (154) and International (14) trucks not counted for February.

TOP TEN MAKES

Toyota gained the top sales position in the March monthly market with 18,649 vehicle sales, ahead of Holden with 13,555 and Ford third with 11,118. Toyota, with a market share of 21.%, holds market leadership in year-to-date terms. Holdenâ?? s February result sees it in second position with a market share of 16.4%, with Ford's market share of 12.4% placing it third. Mazda, with sales of 5,706 and with a market share of 7.1%, hold fourth position. Mitsubishi achieved 5,075 vehicle sales in March and with a share of 5.5%, is in fifth place ahead of Honda, on 5.5% market share.

New Zealand New Vehicle Sales Surge Ahead In March

Motor Industry Association New Zealand
5 April 2006
www.mia.org.nz

The end of the financial year signalled another surge in new vehicle sales.

Compared with February, new car sales for the month rose 19% to 7114 and new commercial vehicle sales, at 2629, were up a staggering 44%. Year to date March, total new vehicle sales rose 5.7% on the same period in 2005.

“The market has been posting new monthly records for the last four years,” said Perry Kerr, CEO of the Motor Industry Association.

This was the biggest March for new cars since 1990, and the biggest for new commercials since 1985. Despite all the comments about a softening economy, new vehicle buyers continue to display a high level of confidence in the sheer value that’s on offer.”

Toyota continues to stretch its lead in the market share stakes, and although Ford finished ahead of Holden in March, Holden still holds second place year to date. In commercial vehicles, Toyota’s selling over double the volume of its nearest rival.

Commodore led Falcon and Corolla in the top model stakes in March, but Corolla still holds second place year to date.

Top 8 New Zealand Brands March 2006

Toyota - 1832
Ford - 1279
Holden - 1181
Honda - 743
Nissan - 701
Mitsubishi - 612
Mazda - 573
Hyundai - 447

Australian & New Zealand February 2006 Car Sales Results

**JoeT** · 04-05-2006, 04:21 AM

John Conomos AO Elected President Of The
Federal Chamber Of Automotive Industries

Federal Chamber Of Automotive Industries
31 March 2006
www.fcai.com.au

The Australian automotive industry’s peak body, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has elected a new President.

Mr John Conomos AO, the Executive Chairman of Toyota Australia, was elected the new President of the FCAI and succeeds Mr Tom Gorman, President of Ford Australia, who concluded his two-year term as President.

The announcement was made at the FCAI’s Annual General Meeting in Canberra this week and at a subsequent dinner attended by the Federal Minister for Industry, Tourism and Resources, The Hon Ian Macfarlane.

Mr Conomos was last year made an officer of the Order of Australia in recognition of his contribution to the industry.

Vice Presidents elected were Mr Ted Okada, President of Toyota Australia, and Mr Lindsay Smalley, Director of Honda Australia.

Other members of the FCAI’s Board elected for 2006 are:

Mr Denny Mooney (GM Holden)
Mr Tom Gorman (Ford)
Mr Rob McEniry (Mitsubishi)
Mr Trevor Amery (Inchcape)
Mr Michael Winkler (Porsche)
Mr Doug Speck (Premier Automotive Group)

Mr Stuart Strickland (Honda MPE) was elected to represent Motorcycle members.

Mr Doug D

ckson (Mazda) was elected the Chamber’s new Honorary Treasurer.

Mr Peter Sturrock, Chief Executive of the FCAI, is also the Secretary of the Board.

Two distinguished contributions to Australia’s automotive industry were recognised during the FCAI’s Annual Dinner with life memberships of the Chamber being stowed upon Mr Tom Phillips, the former President and CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Australia Ltd, and Mr Stuart Strickland, the Managing Director of Honda MPE.

The FCAI represents 55 brands that are collectively responsible for contributing $27 billion each year to the Australian economy.

The Australian automotive industry achieved 988,269 sales in 2005.

New FCAI President & Toyota Australia Executive Chairman Mr John Conomos AO

Car Sales Bounce Back With Record Result

AAP
5 April 2006
www.smh.com.au

Australia's car industry has bounced back from a slide in sales in February to post a record result in March.

Demand for new cars and trucks dipped 4.6 per cent in February but rose 0.6 per cent last month to 87,156, the best March result ever, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) said.

It left the vehicle market down 1.2 per cent for the first quarter at 234,605 vehicles, a result that the FCAI said showed the industry's resilience.

"The first quarter result is actually very good when you consider that the industry set sales records in two out of the three months," said chamber chief executive Peter Sturrock.

"At this early stage sales have put the industry on track to meet the chamber's forecast of 980,000 for the year."

Toyota was the top-selling company last month with 18,649 vehicles ahead of Holden on 13,555 and Ford on 11,118.

The company also led the market on a year-to-date basis, its first quarter performance putting it more than 10,000 units ahead of its nearest rival.

To the end of March Toyota had sold 49,205 vehicles compared to 38,363 for Holden and 28,979 for Ford.

Mazda was next on 16,571, well ahead of the embattled Mitsubishi on 12,997.

Mitsubishi's sales were down by more than 2,000 vehicles, or 15.8 per cent, in the first quarter, even though interest in its new 380 sedan was on the rise.

At 1,210 units in March, the locally made sedan was still failing to attract as many buyers as initially forecast.

But Mitsubishi president Robert McEniry said that was a 20 per cent improvement compared to February and allowed the 380 to increase its share of a tough market segment.

"That is a very credible effort in an extremely tough large-car environment," Mr McEniry said.

"Our larger fleet customers are telling us that the car's growth since launch has been considerable and that it is performing much better than some other models."

The Holden Commodore was the top-selling car last month with 5,170 vehicles, ahead of the Ford Falcon on 4,345 and the Toyota Corolla on 3,680.

Mr Sturrock said the biggest trend in the vehicle market was the shift to more fuel-efficient light cars, with demand up 19 per cent in March and 22.3 per cent in the first quarter.

"Higher fuel prices are clearly having an influence on buying patterns but there's more to it than simply that," Mr Sturrock said.

"The new generation of comparatively safer and better-equipped light cars is attracting entry-level motorists who might previously have bought a second-hand vehicle."

But Mr Sturrock said the effect of fuel prices was obvious in the previously booming sports utility market, which was down nine per cent in the first quarter.

Gold, Gold, Gold!

Neil McDonald
5 April 2006
www.goauto.com.au

Toyota Australia has amassed an impressive gold medal tally of March sales on the back of its Commonwealth Games exposure.

As supplier of official vehicles, the resulting Games boost is expected to show that Toyota is cementing its lead in year-to-date sales terms, according to the latest Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries VFACTS figures due out today.

The Melbourne-base car-maker was an official partner in the Games, donating 1500 vehicles, among them people-movers, sedans and vans.

The sponsorship garnered the manufacturer incalculable worldwide and Australian exposure for its products and helped it secure number-one sales spot for the month.

GoAuto has learnt that VFACTS will show that more than 3000 HiLuxes, around 1400 RAV4s and more than 400 Taragos were sold last month, many pressed into service for the Games. Dealers are also reporting strong private buyer interest in the petrol/electric Prius hybrid. More than 150 are believed to have been sold last month.

One of the improvers last month, albeit slow, was the crucial Mitsubishi 380, with sales going from 1011 to almost 1200 thanks to a $29,990 LE model and increasing exposure for the car.

Two strong winners were the perennial solid performers of Mazda and Subaru, which continue to post strong across-the-board figures. Subaru is believed to have managed close to 4000 sales, with its Outback "duo-tone" model and other special editions receiving favourable feedback.

Apart from Outback, the Impreza, Forester and Liberty models all recorded strong March results. Subaru sales this year are up more than 14 per cent compared to last year.

Of the small-car brigade, the Toyota Corolla, the Mazda3 and the Holden Astra and Viva continue to dominate the small-car sector. More than 3500 Corollas found buyers with the Mazda3 also blitzing with a 2500-plus market.

Honda’s new Civic sedan continues to gain ground, with more than 700 sold last month. Nissan’s Tiida improved with more than 900 sales, up from its February figure of 708 while the X-Trail managed about 700 sales. Despite the X-Trail’s run, Nissan’s overall slow start to the year must be cause for concern, with sales off more than 11 per cent.

In the large-car segment, the ageing Holden Commodore and Ford Falcon sales continue to dominate but are losing momentum because of petrol prices and ageing models. Both hovered around the 5000-sales point last month.

Commodore sales are believed to be off more than 24 per cent and Falcon more than six per cent compared to last year. Ford’s strongpoint remains the Territory, which continues its domination of the SUV segment with more than 1800 sales last month while its light/small car duo of Fiesta and Focus are building momentum.

Holden’s light- and small-car range also balanced out the drop in Commodore sales with more than 1200 Barinas sold. By comparison, Toyota’s newly released Yaris hatch and sedan sold more than 2000 between them.

Mazda Australia has maintained the sales momentum built up in January and February, with an expected figure of more than 5000 cars sold last month. In the large luxury segment over $80,000, the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-class continue to dominate.

The FCAI’s forecast remains at 980,000 vehicles for 2006.

Australian Commonwealth Games exposure benefits Toyota sales in March

ponchoman49 · 04-05-2006, 08:50 AM

What is feakin Toyota doing putting something in the water to make people so dumb!

monza164 · 04-05-2006, 09:16 AM

Well the Australians don't fall for a rebadged Opel fighting the carolla/civic. I don't see how a Saturn Astra is going to save that division.

mikmak · 04-05-2006, 09:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ponchoman49

What is feakin Toyota doing putting something in the water to make people so dumb!

Not sure but its probably the same stuff they us in the US to make camry sales equate to half the total new car sales in Australia.

(okay 40%)

Stormin · 04-05-2006, 10:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by monza164

Well the Australians don't fall for a rebadged Opel fighting the carolla/civic. I don't see how a Saturn Astra is going to save that division.

Actually, the Astra has been a good seller for Holden. Wasn't able to knock off the Corolla, but certainlt saw off the Civic. The top three seemed to be Corolla. Astra and Mazda 3, with second and third often changing position. Those who bought it wanted a Euro instead of a Japanese car. Even I have an Astra, and I love it.

DU Biggs · 04-05-2006, 03:00 PM

I guess i dont see peoples obsession with bland, souless cars (toyota)

roteague · 04-19-2006, 01:04 AM

http://wardsauto.com/ar/imports_oz_ominous/

"CANBERRA – Hidden in last month’s record vehicle sales is a disturbing sign for Australian auto makers – daily sales actually fell.
While March sales rose 0.6% to 87,146 units, according to the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, the month was longer than usual with 27 selling days.

This means that on a daily selling basis, sales actually were down 7% to 3,277 units per day compared with March 2005.

Industry analysts fear April will see a sharp drop in sales due to the month’s five weekends and only 25 selling days. This, combined with the slowing daily sales rate, has the industry staring at caution flags.

Adding to these concerns is the fact the slowest performing segments on the Australian market in March were large cars and SUVs – segments that currently represent all locally built vehicles.

Sales of large cars fell 8.3% in March, while sales of small cars – none of them built in Australia – rose 20%. In other words, the Australian-built vehicles missed out in March’s sales growth."

toronado10 · 04-21-2006, 07:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DU Biggs

I guess i dont see peoples obsession with bland, souless cars (toyota)

Yeah. Toyota (and Honda too) are so bland that they are almost generic brands. GM is bland too, but only sometimes. Impala and Accord and Camry have no character.

Richard1098 · 04-21-2006, 07:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Stormin

Actually, the Astra has been a good seller for Holden. Wasn't able to knock off the Corolla, but certainlt saw off the Civic. The top three seemed to be Corolla. Astra and Mazda 3, with second and third often changing position. Those who bought it wanted a Euro instead of a Japanese car. Even I have an Astra, and I love it.

Astra sold OK, but what about Barina and Vectra. Overall those two must have lost $k on each and every sale.

Richard1098 · 04-21-2006, 07:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DU Biggs

I guess i dont see peoples obsession with bland, souless cars (toyota)

In Aus they have a very strong line up of commercial vehicles and off roaders and dominate those markets. In terms of passenger vehicles, though, things are a lot more even.

BBDOS CV8 · 04-26-2006, 09:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Richard1098

Astra sold OK, but what about Barina and Vectra. Overall those two must have lost $k on each and every sale.

You can't be talking about the new Barina - Holden dealers are denuded of stock. They make more on them than the old Opel-based cars. The Vectra is dead as a doornail. Holden is also selling lots of Vivas. Both these cars have more margin for Holden and dealers than the Opel models. The Astra is selling well - it did knock off the Corolla in '02/'03 but Toyota responded by cheapening the Corolla, which is why it regained the lead. Astras are at least 10% dearer but still do OK.

Toyota is only on top by virtue of imported light whitegoods commerical vehicles, on which margins are meagre. Camry sales are not flash.

Ford is biding time until a new Falcon in 2007 - Territorys are still moving well and Ford makes a lot off each one. Holden is already slowing or stopping VZ production and working on VE stock - the lack of the new 6.0 litre VZ models in Feb/Mar also meant a dip in sales. The market is either hanging off new purchases to get a look at VE or searching for bottom-dollar deals, so big cars are cooled off right now.

If petrol stays above $1.40 it might not come back, though.

Stormin · 04-26-2006, 09:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BBDOS CV8

You can't be talking about the new Barina - Holden dealers are denuded of stock. They make more on them than the old Opel-based cars.

No, he's talking about the Opel Corsa derived Barina.

04-05-2006, 04:10 AM	#1 (permalink)
JoeT GMI's Holden Moderator Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Wollongong, Australia Drives: 2003 Holden Monaro CV8 Posts: 4,854	Australian & New Zealand March 2006 Car Sales Results Motor Vehicle Market Rebounds In March Federal Chamber Of Automotive Industries 5 April 2006 www.fcai.com.au The Australian motor vehicle market has shown its resilience by setting a new record for the month of March. The industry shrugged off a slight sales dip in February to record a total of 87,156 last month – up 0.6 per cent on the previous record set in 2005. At the end of the first quarter total sales were 234,605 – down 2887 or 1.2 per cent on the same period last year. The first-quarter result is actually very good when you consider that the industry set sales records in two out the three months, said the chief executive of the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), Peter Sturrock. At this early stage sales have put the industry on track to meet the Chamber’ s forecast of 980,000 for the year. Last year the industry set a new record total of 988,269 – the fourth year in a row that sales has reached record levels. The biggest trend in the market remains the boom in Light car sales – which were up 19.9 per cent in March and 22.3 per cent for the first quarter. Higher fuel prices are clearly having an influence on buying patterns but there’ s more to it than simply that, said Mr Sturrock. The new generation of comparatively safer and better-equipped Light cars is attracting entry-level motorists who might previously have bought a second-hand vehicle. Mr Sturrock said the effect of fuel prices was obvious in the sales of the previously booming Sports Utility Market, which was down 9.0 per cent in the first quarter. The trend for the Medium and Large car segments was also softer with Medium cars below $55,000 down 8.7 per cent for the year to date and Large cars below $80,000 down 17.6 per cent. The release of new models has a positive effect on how various segments fare, and we’ re hopeful that Medium and Large car sales will pick up when new product is launched in the second half of the year, said Mr Sturrock. The Light Commercial Vehicle sales have been one of the other drivers of overall market growth. LCV sales were up 12.8 per cent last month and 6.7 per cent for the first quarter. Commercial vehicle sales remain remarkably robust, despite evidence elsewhere of some softening in economic conditions, said Peter Sturrock. The willingness to buy new light trucks suggests there’ s still plenty of confidence amongst business, he said. Toyota was market leader in March with 18,649 sales, ahead of Holden (13,555) and Ford (11,118). At the end of the first quarter Toyota leads Holden by 10,842. VFACTS INDUSTRY SUMMARY - MARCH 2006 The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries issues the following summary for the retail sales performance of the automotive industry for March 2006, based on the industryâ?? s standard retail report, VFACTS. The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries advises that the forecast for 2006 is 980,000 vehicles. The March 2006 industry volume of 87,156, sets a new record for a March month, the previous record of 86,638 was set last year, and is up, 518 vehicles or 0.6% on March 2005. March 2006 (26.6) had 2 more selling days than March (24.6) 2005, resulting in a decrease of 245.3 vehicles per day or 7.0%. The March 2006 market is up 9,710 (12.5%) on February (77,446 vehicles). March (26.6) had 2.6 selling days more than February (24.0), resulting in an increase of 49.6 vehicles per day or 1.5%. The March volume equates to a SAAR of 1.007 Million vehicle sales. The Passenger Vehicle Market fell by 94 vehicle sales (-0.2%) over the same month last year, the Sports Utility Vehicle Market, fell by 1,558 vehicle sales (-8.9%), whilst the Light Truck Market, increased by 1,697 vehicle sales (12.8%) and the Heavy Commercial Vehicle Market increased by 473 vehicle sales (17.8%) over March 2005. Toyota was market leader in March, followed by Holden and Ford. Year-to-date Toyota leads Holden with a margin of 10,842 vehicle sales, or 4.6 market share points. The year-to-date 2006 market of 234,605 vehicles is running below the same period in 2005 by 1.2% or 2,887 vehicle sales. With 2.0 more selling days than 2005, the daily selling rate decreased by 126.4 vehicle sales per day or 3.9%. This equates to a YTD SAAR of 1.007 Million vehicles. The Passenger Market at 145,432 vehicles is down by 1,565 vehicles (-1.1%). This equates to a YTD SAAR of 0.616 Million vehicles. Mixed results by segment show that, whilst increases were returned by, the Light car segment up, 5,079 (22.3%); the Small car segment up, 622 (1.2%); the People mover segment up, 146 (3.9%) and the Upper Large car segment up, 92 (5.8%), the Large car segment down, 6,896 (-16.6%); the Sports car segment down, 372 (-7.6%) and the Medium car segment down, 236 (-1.1%), failed to improve on their volumes for the same period last year. The Sports Utility Vehicle Market at 43,653 vehicles is down by 4,204 vehicles (-9.%), in year-to-date terms. This equates to a YTD SAAR of 0.179 Million vehicles. All segments except the SUV Luxury segment which is up, 876 (25.4%), failed to improve on the same period in 2005, with the SUV Medium segment down, 2,288 (-13.2%); the SUV Large segment down, 1,909 (-35.2%) and the SUV Compact segment down, 883 (-4.3%). The Light Truck Market at 39,580 vehicles is running 2,486 vehicles (6.7%) ahead, in year-to-date terms. This equates to a YTD SAAR of 0.179 Million vehicles. All segments with the exception of the Van segment down, 23 vehicles (-0.5%) are experiencing growth, with the Pick-up/Cab Chassis 4X4 segment up, 1,891 (14.0%); the Light bus segment up, 357 vehicles (163.8%); the Pick-up/Cab Chassis 4X2 segment up, 182 vehicles (1.0%) and the 2.5 Tonne truck segment up, 79 vehicles (25.7%), improved on their 2005 volumes. The Heavy Truck Market at 6,940 vehicles is up on the same period in 2005 by, 396 vehicles or 6.1%. MONTHLY RESULTS The Passenger Vehicle Market is down 94 vehicle sales or 0.2%. The PMV market volume equates to a SAAR of 0.611 Million vehicle sales. Mixed results were experienced amongst the segments with improved performances shown in the Light car segment, up 1,63 vehicle sales (19.9%); the People mover segment, up 790 vehicle sales (61.7%); the Small car segment, up 369 vehicle sales (2.0%); Medium car segment, up 125 vehicle sales (1.7%) and the Upper Large car segment, up 107 vehicle sales (17.8%), whilst the Large car Segment, down 2,948 vehicle sales (-18.3%) and the Sports car segment, down 140 vehicle sales (-8.4%), failed to achieve their 2005 volumes. The Sports Utility Vehicle Market is down 1,558 vehicle sales or 8.9% versus March 2005. The SUV market volume equates to SAAR of 0.179 million vehicle sales. Again mixed results by segment were evident, with all segments except the SUV Luxury segment which is up 368 vehicle sales (29.3%), failing to improve on their 2005 result, with the SUV Medium segment, down 825 (-12.5%); the SUV Large segment, down 600 vehicle sales (-3.2%) and the SUV Compact segment, down 51 vehicle sales (-6.6%). The Light Truck Market returned an increase of 1,697 vehicle sales or 12.8% over March 2005. The LCV market volume equates to SAAR of 0.178 million vehicle sales. All segments contributed to this increase with the Pick-up/Cab Chassis 4x4 segment up 1,104 vehicle sales (22.9%); Pick-up/Cab Chassis 4X2 segment, up 262 vehicle sales (4.1%); the Light Bus segment, up 195 (375.%); Van segment, up 125 vehicle sales (6.8%) and the 2.5 Tonne truck segment, 11 vehicle sales (10.0%), on their 2005 volume levels. The Heavy Truck Market is down 473 vehicle sales or 17.8%, when compared with the same month in 2005. This volume includes 168 Iveco (154) and International (14) trucks not counted for February. TOP TEN MAKES Toyota gained the top sales position in the March monthly market with 18,649 vehicle sales, ahead of Holden with 13,555 and Ford third with 11,118. Toyota, with a market share of 21.%, holds market leadership in year-to-date terms. Holdenâ?? s February result sees it in second position with a market share of 16.4%, with Ford's market share of 12.4% placing it third. Mazda, with sales of 5,706 and with a market share of 7.1%, hold fourth position. Mitsubishi achieved 5,075 vehicle sales in March and with a share of 5.5%, is in fifth place ahead of Honda, on 5.5% market share. New Zealand New Vehicle Sales Surge Ahead In March Motor Industry Association New Zealand 5 April 2006 www.mia.org.nz The end of the financial year signalled another surge in new vehicle sales. Compared with February, new car sales for the month rose 19% to 7114 and new commercial vehicle sales, at 2629, were up a staggering 44%. Year to date March, total new vehicle sales rose 5.7% on the same period in 2005. “The market has been posting new monthly records for the last four years,” said Perry Kerr, CEO of the Motor Industry Association. This was the biggest March for new cars since 1990, and the biggest for new commercials since 1985. Despite all the comments about a softening economy, new vehicle buyers continue to display a high level of confidence in the sheer value that’s on offer.” Toyota continues to stretch its lead in the market share stakes, and although Ford finished ahead of Holden in March, Holden still holds second place year to date. In commercial vehicles, Toyota’s selling over double the volume of its nearest rival. Commodore led Falcon and Corolla in the top model stakes in March, but Corolla still holds second place year to date. Top 8 New Zealand Brands March 2006 Toyota - 1832 Ford - 1279 Holden - 1181 Honda - 743 Nissan - 701 Mitsubishi - 612 Mazda - 573 Hyundai - 447 Australian & New Zealand February 2006 Car Sales Results Last edited by JoeT : 05-03-2006 at 04:53 AM.

04-05-2006, 04:21 AM	#2 (permalink)
JoeT GMI's Holden Moderator Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Wollongong, Australia Drives: 2003 Holden Monaro CV8 Posts: 4,854	Re: Australian & New Zealand March 2006 Car Sales Results John Conomos AO Elected President Of The Federal Chamber Of Automotive Industries Federal Chamber Of Automotive Industries 31 March 2006 www.fcai.com.au The Australian automotive industry’s peak body, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has elected a new President. Mr John Conomos AO, the Executive Chairman of Toyota Australia, was elected the new President of the FCAI and succeeds Mr Tom Gorman, President of Ford Australia, who concluded his two-year term as President. The announcement was made at the FCAI’s Annual General Meeting in Canberra this week and at a subsequent dinner attended by the Federal Minister for Industry, Tourism and Resources, The Hon Ian Macfarlane. Mr Conomos was last year made an officer of the Order of Australia in recognition of his contribution to the industry. Vice Presidents elected were Mr Ted Okada, President of Toyota Australia, and Mr Lindsay Smalley, Director of Honda Australia. Other members of the FCAI’s Board elected for 2006 are: Mr Denny Mooney (GM Holden) Mr Tom Gorman (Ford) Mr Rob McEniry (Mitsubishi) Mr Trevor Amery (Inchcape) Mr Michael Winkler (Porsche) Mr Doug Speck (Premier Automotive Group) Mr Stuart Strickland (Honda MPE) was elected to represent Motorcycle members. Mr Doug Dckson (Mazda) was elected the Chamber’s new Honorary Treasurer. Mr Peter Sturrock, Chief Executive of the FCAI, is also the Secretary of the Board. Two distinguished contributions to Australia’s automotive industry were recognised during the FCAI’s Annual Dinner with life memberships of the Chamber being stowed upon Mr Tom Phillips, the former President and CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Australia Ltd, and Mr Stuart Strickland, the Managing Director of Honda MPE. The FCAI represents 55 brands that are collectively responsible for contributing $27 billion each year to the Australian economy. The Australian automotive industry achieved 988,269 sales in 2005. New FCAI President & Toyota Australia Executive Chairman Mr John Conomos AO Car Sales Bounce Back With Record Result AAP 5 April 2006 www.smh.com.au Australia's car industry has bounced back from a slide in sales in February to post a record result in March. Demand for new cars and trucks dipped 4.6 per cent in February but rose 0.6 per cent last month to 87,156, the best March result ever, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) said. It left the vehicle market down 1.2 per cent for the first quarter at 234,605 vehicles, a result that the FCAI said showed the industry's resilience. "The first quarter result is actually very good when you consider that the industry set sales records in two out of the three months," said chamber chief executive Peter Sturrock. "At this early stage sales have put the industry on track to meet the chamber's forecast of 980,000 for the year." Toyota was the top-selling company last month with 18,649 vehicles ahead of Holden on 13,555 and Ford on 11,118. The company also led the market on a year-to-date basis, its first quarter performance putting it more than 10,000 units ahead of its nearest rival. To the end of March Toyota had sold 49,205 vehicles compared to 38,363 for Holden and 28,979 for Ford. Mazda was next on 16,571, well ahead of the embattled Mitsubishi on 12,997. Mitsubishi's sales were down by more than 2,000 vehicles, or 15.8 per cent, in the first quarter, even though interest in its new 380 sedan was on the rise. At 1,210 units in March, the locally made sedan was still failing to attract as many buyers as initially forecast. But Mitsubishi president Robert McEniry said that was a 20 per cent improvement compared to February and allowed the 380 to increase its share of a tough market segment. "That is a very credible effort in an extremely tough large-car environment," Mr McEniry said. "Our larger fleet customers are telling us that the car's growth since launch has been considerable and that it is performing much better than some other models." The Holden Commodore was the top-selling car last month with 5,170 vehicles, ahead of the Ford Falcon on 4,345 and the Toyota Corolla on 3,680. Mr Sturrock said the biggest trend in the vehicle market was the shift to more fuel-efficient light cars, with demand up 19 per cent in March and 22.3 per cent in the first quarter. "Higher fuel prices are clearly having an influence on buying patterns but there's more to it than simply that," Mr Sturrock said. "The new generation of comparatively safer and better-equipped light cars is attracting entry-level motorists who might previously have bought a second-hand vehicle." But Mr Sturrock said the effect of fuel prices was obvious in the previously booming sports utility market, which was down nine per cent in the first quarter. Gold, Gold, Gold! Neil McDonald 5 April 2006 www.goauto.com.au Toyota Australia has amassed an impressive gold medal tally of March sales on the back of its Commonwealth Games exposure. As supplier of official vehicles, the resulting Games boost is expected to show that Toyota is cementing its lead in year-to-date sales terms, according to the latest Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries VFACTS figures due out today. The Melbourne-base car-maker was an official partner in the Games, donating 1500 vehicles, among them people-movers, sedans and vans. The sponsorship garnered the manufacturer incalculable worldwide and Australian exposure for its products and helped it secure number-one sales spot for the month. GoAuto has learnt that VFACTS will show that more than 3000 HiLuxes, around 1400 RAV4s and more than 400 Taragos were sold last month, many pressed into service for the Games. Dealers are also reporting strong private buyer interest in the petrol/electric Prius hybrid. More than 150 are believed to have been sold last month. One of the improvers last month, albeit slow, was the crucial Mitsubishi 380, with sales going from 1011 to almost 1200 thanks to a $29,990 LE model and increasing exposure for the car. Two strong winners were the perennial solid performers of Mazda and Subaru, which continue to post strong across-the-board figures. Subaru is believed to have managed close to 4000 sales, with its Outback "duo-tone" model and other special editions receiving favourable feedback. Apart from Outback, the Impreza, Forester and Liberty models all recorded strong March results. Subaru sales this year are up more than 14 per cent compared to last year. Of the small-car brigade, the Toyota Corolla, the Mazda3 and the Holden Astra and Viva continue to dominate the small-car sector. More than 3500 Corollas found buyers with the Mazda3 also blitzing with a 2500-plus market. Honda’s new Civic sedan continues to gain ground, with more than 700 sold last month. Nissan’s Tiida improved with more than 900 sales, up from its February figure of 708 while the X-Trail managed about 700 sales. Despite the X-Trail’s run, Nissan’s overall slow start to the year must be cause for concern, with sales off more than 11 per cent. In the large-car segment, the ageing Holden Commodore and Ford Falcon sales continue to dominate but are losing momentum because of petrol prices and ageing models. Both hovered around the 5000-sales point last month. Commodore sales are believed to be off more than 24 per cent and Falcon more than six per cent compared to last year. Ford’s strongpoint remains the Territory, which continues its domination of the SUV segment with more than 1800 sales last month while its light/small car duo of Fiesta and Focus are building momentum. Holden’s light- and small-car range also balanced out the drop in Commodore sales with more than 1200 Barinas sold. By comparison, Toyota’s newly released Yaris hatch and sedan sold more than 2000 between them. Mazda Australia has maintained the sales momentum built up in January and February, with an expected figure of more than 5000 cars sold last month. In the large luxury segment over $80,000, the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-class continue to dominate. The FCAI’s forecast remains at 980,000 vehicles for 2006. Australian Commonwealth Games exposure benefits Toyota sales in March Last edited by JoeT : 04-05-2006 at 04:24 AM.

04-05-2006, 08:50 AM	#3 (permalink)
ponchoman49 4.4 Liter Supercharged Northstar Join Date: Feb 2003 Posts: 2,244	Re: Australian & New Zealand March 2006 Car Sales Results What is feakin Toyota doing putting something in the water to make people so dumb!

04-05-2006, 09:16 AM	#4 (permalink)
monza164 3.8 Liter V6 Join Date: May 2003 Location: michigan u.p. Drives: 90 GMC Sierra 01 Kawasaki KLR Posts: 418	Re: Australian & New Zealand March 2006 Car Sales Results Well the Australians don't fall for a rebadged Opel fighting the carolla/civic. I don't see how a Saturn Astra is going to save that division. __________________ 90 Sierra 95 Caprice 79 DeVille 65 Corvair

04-05-2006, 03:00 PM	#7 (permalink)
DU Biggs 3.5 Liter V6 Join Date: Jan 2006 Posts: 272	Re: Australian & New Zealand March 2006 Car Sales Results I guess i dont see peoples obsession with bland, souless cars (toyota)

Remove Advertisements Sponsored Links
GM Inside News Forum Advertisement

04-19-2006, 01:04 AM	#8 (permalink)
roteague 5.3 Liter Vortec V8 Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Kaneohe, HI Posts: 1,437	Trend to Small Imports Sends Oz Auto Makers Ominous Signal http://wardsauto.com/ar/imports_oz_ominous/ "CANBERRA – Hidden in last month’s record vehicle sales is a disturbing sign for Australian auto makers – daily sales actually fell. While March sales rose 0.6% to 87,146 units, according to the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, the month was longer than usual with 27 selling days. This means that on a daily selling basis, sales actually were down 7% to 3,277 units per day compared with March 2005. Industry analysts fear April will see a sharp drop in sales due to the month’s five weekends and only 25 selling days. This, combined with the slowing daily sales rate, has the industry staring at caution flags. Adding to these concerns is the fact the slowest performing segments on the Australian market in March were large cars and SUVs – segments that currently represent all locally built vehicles. Sales of large cars fell 8.3% in March, while sales of small cars – none of them built in Australia – rose 20%. In other words, the Australian-built vehicles missed out in March’s sales growth."

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode