Tue, 07 Mar 2006

Car industry experts are predicting that car sales could rise during March and lead to an increase in demand for Motor Insurance cover.

New car registrations during February fell by 1.4 per cent to total 75,996, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) but they remain optimistic that this month will produce better sales figures.

The introduction of March's new registration plates and new models, alongside a number of dealership promotions such as free Motor Insurance cover, could help to boost figures over the coming weeks.

"We believe March will present a more accurate barometer of performance for the year," said SMMT chief executive Christopher Macgowan.

He added: "While times are still tough, the plate-change is shifting the car market spike from September to March. Competitive deals like zero percent finance and free insurance should also help drive customers to showrooms throughout March."

It is estimated that March could lead to sales of around 450,000 units.

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