According to the latest figures, it is doing very well, with sources quoting almost 14 percent year on year increase, with just over 172,000 units last month, and the Q1 figures are a staggering 22.5 percent. Vehicles for export were also up, other than to places in turmoil such as the Middle East.
The bulk of the increase in domestic consumption vehicles was for A segment cars with engines below 1,500 cc. Passenger car figures were up by 43 percent for Q1. Of course the Bangkok International Motor Show in March/April did assist, with manufacturers getting ready to capitalize on the added interest that the show brings to the industry.
Unfortunately, Q2 will show the knock-on effect caused by the Japanese earthquake and tsunami in March. Although the local content of Thai built vehicles is very high, there are still some parts that are imported from Japan, and with the projected hold-up from drops in Japanese manufacturing, stocks may be limited during the second quarter.
But if you really want some figures to sit you back on your heels, Ford reported a 257 percent increase in February year in year. Fiesta alone made up 1,270 units, with the outgoing Ranger pick-up improved 66 percent year on year. The Focus sales were also up 29 percent. As in the US, Ford seems to have lifted its game and the future should be a Fiesta. While the new Ranger shown at the Bangkok International Motor Show is awaited!
