'The increase in new car sales in 2007 shows that consumer confidence weathered the economic storms, but interest rates must come down in 2008 for this level of demand to continue,' said Sue Robinson, director of the RMI's National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), commenting on 2007's new car sales figures, released today (Monday 7 January 2008).

2,404,007 units were sold in 2007, 2.5 per cent up on 2006.*

Robinson believes that the uncertain economic situation and increasing environmental awareness will inform car-buying choices in 2008: 'Smaller family cars and superminis will be high on the agenda, as families look for vehicles which are more economical to run and are more positive for the environment.'