Scrappage scheme results

The scrappage scheme has now ended, prompting motoring commentators to ponder its results and outcomes. 

Latest preliminary figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show that Hyundai, Ford, Kia, Fiat and Toyota were the biggest winners from the scheme, selling from 38,780 to 25,192 vehicles respectively. 

The scrappage scheme allowed owners to sell a car for cash off the price of a new model. To qualify for the £2000 discount off the price of a new model, cars over ten years old had to be traded in.

The SMMT figures cited in Whatcar? report that luxury brands such as Rolls Royce and Bentley did not sell any cars through the scheme. However, luxury brands such as Porsche and Lexus sold a handful of models, with Mercedes-Benz topping the 1500 mark.

In addition to bolstering the motoring industry, it is reported that the scrappage incentive had a positive impact on carbon emissions, with new models being on average around 30 per cent more environmentally friendly than their traded in counterparts.

Whatcar? concludes its delve into the scrappage scheme by outlining which brands will continue to implement money saving schemes. At present, it seems that many manufacturers including Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Seat and Volvo will be running swappage or similar incentives, to encourage car buyers to continue to support the motoring sector. It is no surprise that the manufacturers continuing incentives, are those which saw the best results from the initial scrappage scheme.

 

Rupalee Ghia, Middlesex, Mini Cooper

Francis Monger, Thatcham, FORD MONDEO ESTATE