In the 1st half of 2023, 11,830 private vehicles were registered on the island, figure down by 8,63% compared to the previous year, according to the Réunion Import and Trade Union. At the same time, commercial vehicle sales (2 672) have progressed, slightly reducing the rate of overall sales decline (-6,4 %). Electrification of the park continues, with 1,473 electric vehicles sold, and the trend towards “greening” is even more marked in sales of premium vehicles : more than half of registrations in this segment now concern electric or hybrid cars. While the French market is experiencing a recovery phase, that of Reunion Island is still impacted by supply difficulties for dealers, due to the shortage of semiconductor materials among manufacturers. The inflationary context and rising interest rates also encourage individuals to be cautious and make choices that do not favor the purchase of a car.. In this context, brands experienced mixed fortunes during the first six months of the year. Leaders Renault and Peugeot saw their activity decline, like many of their colleagues, but other brands (Toyota, Seat, Opel, Skoda…) have progressed. According to professionals, the trend is not expected to reverse in the second half, and 2023 sales are forecast below the 30,000 mark.
