SALES DECLINE

Hokitika Guardian, 12 July 1940, Page 6

SALES DECLINE

AUSTRALIAN MOTOR VEHICLES

(Per P.rcsa Association— Copyright).

CHRISTCHURCH, J-uly 11

Sales of motor vehicles in Australia have declined during the war period, and, in-New -South. . Wales- lower wore sold during May than in any onje month for several years. The average number of cars, , cabs, and omnibuses registered each week during May, was 17(3, compared with a weekly average of 243 in April, 268 m March, 333 in February, and 344 in December, 1939. Registrations of commercial vehicles, excluding those purchased, for the Army and Air Force, averaged 103 weekly in May, against; 114 in ApriJJ 106 in March. 110 in February, and 127 in December. . ,

Higher motor taxation, the necessity for inspection before registration, tbe rising price of petrol, tyres, and accessories, and probuoly war. enlistments, have. exerted a cumulative influence, and at May 31st. the number of registered vehicles in New South Wales stood at 321,000, including 211,900 cars .and 76,100 commercial vehicles, compared with a total of 329,200, including 216,000 cars and 77,700 motor vehicles in August, 19,39. Tlie rationing of petrol will commence in August, and an organised effort is being made to popularise tlje use of charcoal gas. A standard producer is to be marketed, and as running costs can be reduced, foreign currency balances conserved, - native resources used and provision made for maintaining road transport under emergency conditions, w.idesp rea d ado ptibh of the ■: new -f o rm-. of power is confidently -