Canadian auto sales down 19.6 per cent in September as shortages weigh

TORONTO – Canadian auto sales fell 19.6 per cent in September from a year earlier as vehicle shortages caused by semiconductor supply issues continue to weigh.

According to estimates compiled by DesRosiers Automotive Consultants, Canadian light vehicle sales totalled 136,584 in the month, down from 169,876 last year.

DAC says the seasonally adjusted annual rate of sales came in at an “undeniably weak” 1.55 million.

Andrew King, managing partner at DAC, says there have been dramatic divergences in sales performances between companies because of the semiconductor shortages.

He says that Ford and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, now known as Stellantis, have lost further market share, while companies like Toyota, Kia and Volkswagen have seen notable sales gains.

Ford was still the top-selling brand in the quarter, followed by General Motors and FCA.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 1, 2021.