Sales Growth Slows in Europe

November new-car deliveries rose only 1% to 989,500 units across Europe in November, according to industry group ACEA.

Sales slipped in Germany (-2% to 250,100 units) and France (-3% to 135,100). But volume rose in the U.K. (+8% to 172,300), Italy (+5% to 108,000) and Spain (+17% to 65,100).

Results also were mixed among Europe's biggest carmakers. Sales rose for Volkswagen Group (+3% to 264,700), Renault Group (+4% to 93,900) and Chrysler Fiat Automobiles (+4% to 57,800). Demand fell for PSA Peugeot Citroen (-3% to 101,000), Ford (-6% to 65,500) and Opel (-12% to 64,100).

BMW and Mercedes-Benz brands gained 9% to 55,000 units and 8% to 52,700 vehicles, respectively.

Asian carmakers all reported strong growth in November. Sales rose 3% to 44,800 units for Toyota, 19% to 36,900 for Nissan, 6% to 32,100 for Hyundai and 3% to 28,000 for Kia.