Australian October car sales lowest in 19 years

The Australian automotive industry is still feeling the effects of the semiconductor shortage as it experiences the lowest sales numbers in 19 years.

The Australian automotive market recorded new car sales at 74,650, which is a decrease of 8.1% (6,570) compared to October 2020 (81,220).

The decrease is representative of the impact of the ongoing semiconductor shortage on international supply chains, however, the supply of cars to Australia is expected to stabilise in 2022.

All states and territories in Australia bar Victoria experienced a decline in sales compared to October 2020. Victoria saw an increase of 6.3% compared to the same time last year. See the table below for state and territory sales figures.

FCAI Chief Executive Office Tony Weber said it was clear that manufacturers were struggling with supply chains.

“Automotive manufacturers like all those in the global manufacturing sector are dealing with a microprocessor shortage which is leading to longer wait times to get products to market. Australians are continuing to purchase vehicles, and carmakers are working to deliver products to our shores,” Mr Weber said.

Despite sales figures being down overall, the number of electric vehicles sold continues to rise. It comes as no coincidence as more states and territories are offering incentives for EVs.

“We have seen Victoria and NSW release comprehensive legislation to support electric vehicles which was followed just last week by South Australia.

“All of these jurisdictions worked proactively with industry to provide infrastructure investment and consumer incentives. We look forward to working with Governments at all levels to form nationally consistent policies which will make electric vehicles more accessible to the Australian motorist,” Mr Weber added.

Toyota was the market leader in October with 15,395 cars sold. Second to them was Hyundai with 6,115 and Ford with 5,462. Mazda was in fourth place with 5,181 cars sold and Kia in fifth with 4,853.

Utes came out on top again with the Ford Ranger selling 4,135 units and the Toyota Hi-Lux with 3,961. The Toyota Landcruiser was third with 2,031 units, Toyota Corolla fourth with 1,989 and Hyundai’s i30 in fifth with 1,946 sold.

Toyota came out as the market leader in October with 9,280 cars sold and a 12.4 per cent market share. The second was Korean car manufacturer Hyundai followed in third place by Ford.