According to figures compiled by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry, light commercial vehicles are also maintaining an upward trend, at 26,171 being 20pc up on year to date.
However, the industry says care must be taken in the framing of next week’s Budget that it doesn’t negatively impact on economic growth.
SIMI says that consumer and business confidence are crucial to driving economic activity and has called for a budget that supports stability and lifts consumer confidence again.
The organisation has reminded Government that the motor industry employs 42,000 and collects in excess of €5bn in taxes for the state.
“Any negative decisions in the forthcoming Budget will directly impact on activity and on tax revenues in 2017,” warns Alan Nolan, SIMI’s Director General.
