August Sales Slip in Germany, France, Italy

Deliveries of new passenger vehicles declined last month in the Continent's three largest markets, according to trade groups and government agencies.

In Germany, sales slipped about 900 units to 213,000 vehicles. In France, demand fell 3% to 83,300 unit. In Italy, volume totaled 53,200 units, down 100 units.

Sales surged 14% year on year to 45,400 units in Spain, thanks to a government €2,000 rebate program. The U.K. has not yet reported its August sales.