A February Thought

February Update: What we have spotted, does it align with what you see?

Moving into February, we at Spencer’s Car Sales and Service Centre in Norwich are reflecting on a strong start to the year. January is often a quieter month in the automotive industry given many people are paid before Christmas making it a 47 week month for those individuals, but we’ve seen a steady increase in demand, particularly for well-priced petrol and diesel vehicles.

Car Sales Trends: Price-Range Vehicles in Demand

One of the most noticeable trends so far this year is the demand for price-range cars. Car purchases are being made out of necessity and not as a result of spontaneous lust. Customers are looking for affordability without compromising on quality, and our team in Rackheath is dedicated to ensuring we have a great selection of vehicles that meet these needs.

Electric Cars: Still a Slow Market in Norfolk

While electric vehicles (EVs) continue to grow in popularity nationwide, we’re still seeing a slow uptake in Norfolk on the used market. Infrastructure and charging concerns remain key factors for many drivers in our region. There are so many questions when it comes to used EV's : how have they been charged, have they been serviced correctly and therefore does the manufacteurers warranty still stand? What is the overall health of the battery? How much is a new battery? Then there is the complex issue of car chargers, applications on mobile phones for both car and for charger.  A used EV is not as simple as a used petrol or diesel car which makes hybrid vehicles a more attractive option for those looking for improved fuel efficiency without committing fully to electric. Hybrid sales have been steady, but petrol and diesel vehicles remain the most in-demand choices. We are often asked 'should I buy a diesel because they are going to be phased out aren't they?' and our answer to that is: Yes they will be phased out, but so will petrol vehicles. And they wont be phasing them out for at least 10 years because brand new petrol and diesel cars are currently permitted for sale in the UK until 2035 under the current Labour legislation although there is talk of that coming forwards 5 years to match the previous Conservative commitment. 

SUVs Leading the Way

Another clear trend is the increasing popularity of SUVs. Whether it’s for practicality, comfort, or a higher driving position, customers are gravitating toward these versatile vehicles. We’ve been working hard to ensure we have a great selection of SUVs available, catering to a range of budgets and preferences.

Customer Experience: A Top Priority

At Spencer’s Car Sales and Service Centre, we pride ourselves on delivering a customer experience that is second to none. Our team, led by our top man James Castleton (who may or may not be the author of this post, somewhat accompanied by ChatGPT) is committed to providing expert advice and excellent service. Whether you’re buying your next car or booking in for servicing, we strive to make the process as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Looking Ahead to the Rest of the Year

With January behind us, we’re optimistic about the months ahead. The demand for quality used cars is strong, and we’re continuously updating our stock to ensure we have the right vehicles for our customers in Norwich, Rackheath, and beyond. Whether you’re looking for a reliable family SUV, an economical hybrid, or a budget-friendly petrol or diesel vehicle, we’re here to help.

Visit us at Spencer’s Car Sales and Service Centre to explore our latest stock and experience our outstanding customer service firsthand. We look forward to helping you find the perfect car for your needs!