The ghost of the pre-coronavirus pandemic market continues to haunt the UK automotive industry, with every new set of sales figures inevitably measured against that “before” time. September’s results, while positive on the surface, are no exception, highlighting a recovery that is still far from complete and a market still living in the shadow of its former self.
The official statement notes that while September 2025 was the strongest since 2020, “sales are well below levels seen before the coronavirus pandemic.” This single line is a crucial reminder that the industry has not yet returned to its previous state of health. The pre-pandemic era represents a benchmark of normality and prosperity that remains stubbornly out of reach.
This haunting is about more than just numbers. It represents a time of different economic realities. Before 2020, the market was not so heavily constrained by the cost of living crisis, supply chain disruptions, and widespread economic uncertainty. Consumer confidence was higher, and the path for the industry seemed more stable.
The current EV boom, driven by subsidies, is an attempt to exorcise this ghost and build a new future. It is creating pockets of impressive growth and excitement. However, the fact that the overall market volume is still lagging shows that the fundamental economic conditions are weaker than they were in the past.
Until the total market can consistently match or exceed the levels seen before 2020 without the need for heavy artificial stimulus, the ghost will remain. It serves as a constant, sobering reminder of the ground the industry still needs to make up to declare a full and robust recovery.
