According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders car sales in December 2008 fell by 21.2 percent compared with December 2007. Add that figure to the Novemeber fall of 36.8 percent the car sales market is almost on its knees.

Calls have been made to the government to help the car industry stay afloat, the cut in VAT to 15% seems to have had a negative effect on the car market.

The best selling cars for 2008 were, Ford Focus, Vauxhall Corsa, Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Astra and the Volkswagen Golf.