Scrappage scheme boosts car sales

May 29 2009 The latest car sales figures have suggested the implementation of the scrappage scheme in the UK is having a positive impact on the industry.

According to the BBC, government statistics show over 35,000 new cars have already been ordered through the scheme, which was announced in the Budget in April and began operating earlier this month.

Paul Everitt, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, welcomed the figures, but told the BBC it remains too early to decide whether or not the scheme is a success.

The government's initiative follows in the footsteps of initiatives that have been introduced with some success in other countries across Europe, including in Italy and Germany.

Chancellor Alistair Darling announced in his Budget speech that drivers of old cars could receive up to £2,000 off a new, more environmentally-friendly model.

Recent research from the RAC Foundation has found a growing number of people are interested in buying electric vehicles in the future in a bid to cut their carbon emissions.

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