More Europeans are replacing ageing vehicles.
European Skoda sales boom Image: Skoda UK |
European car sales have been steadily rising for seven consecutive months, with a 10% increase in March.
The latest boost was helped by replacement of ageing vehicles as consumers gain confidence in the European economy.
The EU and European Free Trade Association (EFTA) markets have seen registrations increase year-on-year from 1.35m vehicles in 2013 to almost 1.5m in March this year.
The European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ECEA) is also reporting a rise in first quarter sales to 3.35m vehicles.
The overall emergence of the European economy from the recession is a primary reason for the for this upturn - although some individual contries still have some way to go. The European Commission is forecasting that Euro-zone countries will see a 1.2% growth in 2014, with analysts predicting more moderate growth as the year progresses after a dynamic start to the year.
Volkswagen Group has particularly benefitted from renewed consumer confidence, with its European sales up 8%. It Skoda brand headed the list with a 20% increase, but Seat, VW brand and Audi sales were all up by around 8%, partly helped by recent new model launches.