Steel Markets

U.S. Auto Sales Continue Their Successful Run

October 1, 2015

U.S. automotive sale results were released today under the shadow of a failed UAW tentative agreement with Fiat Chrysler. However, auto manufacturers kept their successful sales run going again in September.

The Detroit Big Three all enjoyed double digit increases in sales last month. Ford gained 23 percent, General Motors 12 percent, and FCA 14 percent.

The Asian manufactures did well with Toyota sales increasing by 16 percent. Nissan, Honda, and Subaru all showed gains at 18 percent, 13 percent, and 28 percent, respectively.

Hyundai sales increased by 14 percent and Kia’s by 23 percent.

Volkswagen was the sole automaker to register a poor showing in September. Embroiled in a scandal over falsified diesel vehicle emissions, the company sales increased by less than 1 percent last month as customers waited to see how the problem will be addressed.

SUVS, crossovers and trucks continued to take the spotlight in September sales as gasoline prices remain favorable to consumers.

WardsAuto projects 1.44 million light vehicles were sold in the U.S. in September and a projected SAAR of 18.03 million for 2015.