Greener consumers good for car dealers

‘The move towards more environmentally-friendly vehicles could be a major sales driver for car dealers in 2008,’ according to Sue Robinson, director of the RMI’s National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA).

While sales of new cars that fall within the top tax band fell by 15 per cent in 2007, sales of low emission cars in bands A and B increased by 17 per cent.

Robinson continues: ‘Consumers want to do their part to reduce carbon emissions, and many will be looking at where they can make reductions. Their choice of vehicle will have a significant impact. Company car drivers are also encouraged via the tax regime governing this segment. All this gives dealers an opportunity to help consumers make the choice, maximize sales, and do their part for the environment all at the same time.’

Robinson adds: ‘The new car fuel economy labeling system for cars that is already in place already enables dealers to show which cars will provide lower emissions, and they can build on this. Dealers would like to see the Government do even more to encourage consumers to buy ethically, and think green.’