Convertible sales reach new record

Convertible vehicle sales hit a record high in May, according to Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders figures.

6% of the cars sold during May were convertibles, up from 5.4% in 2004. This was the highest share of the market ever held by the segment. Overall, 187,900 vehicles were sold in May 2005, 3.4% down on last year.

Alan Pulham, franchised dealer director for the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI) says: “The overall decline new car sales was offset in May by the increase in rag-top sales, showing the continuing British enthusiasm for open-air motoring.

“UK motorists have always had a soft spot for soft-tops, and in the last few years sales have shot up. With more convertibles coming into showrooms all the time, there is more choice than ever, and motorists are taking advantage of this.”