MOTOR TRADE

Waikato Times, Volume 125, Issue 20923, 30 September 1939, Page 6

MOTOR TRADE

BRIGHTER OUTLOOK ACTIVITY DC HAMILTON STAGNATION DISAPPEARS A state almost of stagnation which was apparent in the motor trade in i Hamilton during the first week of i the war has disappeared, and the I outlook at present is considerably brighter than for several weeks. Dealers report that quite a number of new car sales were put through this week. There has also been a good inquiry lor certain classes ol used vehicles. Restrictions on the use of petrol had a wide psychological influence, but now that the general public is becoming accustomed to the changed conditions, business is proceeding on almost normal lines. Many of those connected with the trade are convinced that as there is an ample supply of petrol in the country, the petrol restrictions will be relaxed in the near future. Supplies of Fuel Present supplies of fuel in the Dominion are estimated at 50,000,000 gallons, which, under the rationing system now in force, should be sufficient for from eight to ten months. Storage space is already heavily taxed, and no indication has been given that the present tanker service to the Dominion is likeiy to be curtailed unless the theatres of na\‘al warfare are greatly extended. Prospective buyers of new cars must realise that with concentration upon the manufacture of war materials, and the rise in the price of commodities such as steel and rubber, prices must advance. Present stocks of Caladian and American cars were bough? before the dollar exchange hardened, and consequently are being sold about 124 per cent Delow the price at which fresh shipments could be retailed. Light Trucks In Demand Dealers in Hamilton report that the inquiry for used cars has shown considerable improvement in the last few days, the general utility vehicle being most in demand. Light trucks, particularly of recent make, are becoming increasingly difficult to obtain. One firm has sold on the average two tricks to one car. The manager of one Hamilton firm said it was almost certain that conditions overseas would affect the manufacture of cars, and there would be fewer importations into New Zealand. This would result in cars being retained for a longer period, and in greater activity in repair workshops. Already a considerable amount of reconditioning work was being done. Uncertainty in the early days of the war, no doubt, made car-owners decide to hold up repair work. They had now realised that there was nothing to be gained, but in fact a likelihood of definite loss, in delaying repairs. Full use of their allowance of petrol under the coupon system has been made by private car-owners, and statements concerning the large supplies held in the Dominion, together with the fact that future shipments are likely to be landed without difficulty, have sounded an optimistic note. Up to yesterday 3331 sets of coupons had been issued to private owners from the Hamilton oil fuel depot and 187 coupons to motor-cyclists.