Growth in the European car market continued in April, after January and March, continental sales hit 1,420,944 units, up a good 9.6 percent compared to the 1,296,329 sold in 2007.

The spring wake up was driven by Germany and France (growing 15 and 20 percent respectively), while Italy hit a sudden stop, down by 2.9 percent. The 8.2 percentage points compared to last year’s figures are easily explained - “fault” of incentives. Two extra working days also make their mark in this year’s results.

A big beneficiary was the Fiat brand, which registered astronomical increases in competing countries: in France up 49.8 percent, while in Germany growth was “limited” to 17.7 percent. Success can be put down to the Panda and the 500, in first and second place in with percentages of 16.9 and 15.

As per sad routine though, Alfa Romeo and Lancia proceed with their downturn, in expectation of the Delta and the Mi.To, safety anchors for the brands. Other figures related to the Brasilian and Turkish markets are suprising too (up 50.3 and 35.7 percent), both above entire sales figures.

Via | Repubblica