Fleet sales could spike ahead of the September introduction of new WLTP regulations, says Cap HPI.

Retail sales are expected to remain stable in contrast to the registration boost seen in March 2017 prior to the introduction of new VED rules.

Andrew Mee, senior forecasting editor (UK) at Cap HPI, said: “For company cars, the renewal cycle is generally fixed, and although there could be a potential pull forward of renewals for BIK advantage, the manufacturer lead times may make this difficult in practice.

WLTP regulations will apply to all new vehicles from September 1 2018.

The EU legislation aims to provide customers with a more detailed view of how a vehicle performs concerning mpg and CO2.  It takes optional equipment into account and is more representative of real driving styles.

“We are unlikely to see a significant spike in sales ahead of WLTP changes in September. WLTP, CO2 and mpg figures are being introduced on a phased basis, so many will be in place ahead of September. On the retail side consumers aren’t fully aware of WLTP, and if they are then many will not be overly concerned about official figures that only impact on VED rates.”

Cap HPI has enhanced its existing New Vehicle Data files and will be identifying test cycle data as it become available from manufacturers.

It will release an online solution that will cater for individually configured vehicles, giving the end customer a true reflection of the vehicle’s emissions at point of sale.