Tractor sales are up but LCV sales are down
The global pandemic, which has led to an unforeseen economic downturn, has created a nightmare in just about every sector of the economy. However, normality seems to be returning to a certain extent, and we have seen a few interesting sales trends.
Car sales down but Ford Ranger remains sales are up
The latest National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA) report indicated domestic sales of new light commercial vehicles, bakkies and minibuses of 11123 units during July, which was a 2736 decline compared with the 13859 vehicles sold during July last year. However, the Ford Ranger has proved to be popular in recent months. The AutoTrader annual Car Industry Report showed that the Ford Ranger as the top-selling used vehicle model overall - and the fifth most-searched vehicle in South Africa for the period July 2019 to June 2020. The Ford Ranger contributed 4.7-per cent of all used cars sold in South Africa and generated 8.3-million searches in the aforementioned period.
"The top-selling used Ranger derivative is the 2.2TDCi Double Cab Hi-Rider XL; it is the most popular Ranger by far. It retails for an average selling price of R260 673, the average mileage is 90 596 km and the average year of registration is 2015. The Ranger is especially popular in Gauteng, with that province representing 55,02% of total Ranger sales while the double cab is the most popular body type, accounting for 68,86% of sales," reveals George Mienie, AutoTrader CEO.
The Ford Ranger has been one of the most popular choices within the agricultural sector thanks to a widespread dealership network, proven reliability and impressive load capabilities which are complimented by impressive towing abilities. The Ford Ranger is offered in various body styles which allows customers to use the vehicle in various applications.
Related: We compared Ford Ranger engines, and the efficiency crown goes to…
Tractor and combine harvester sales are up
The latest report which has been released by the South African Agricultural Machinery Association (SAAMA) indicates that 444 tractors were sold in July, up 21% on the 368 units sold during the same month last year. Around 11 Combine Harvesters were sold in July which is an increase of three units compared to last year this time.
What is the reason for the increase in sales of agricultural products?
According to the chairperson of SAAMA, Greg Cadman, the increase is due to customers having little confidence in the Rand which resulted in stock being bought now before the Rand weakens further and prices of agricultural machines potentially increase. Another reason is that good summer crops are currently being harvested and prospects for winter crops and the forthcoming summer cropping season are looking encouraging which is good news for our strained agricultural sector.