Automakers are bracing for a mixed performance in the third quarter, with September sales projected to climb by 6 to 9 percent—yet overall deliveries for the period could still decline by up to 1 percent, according to industry forecasts. The rebound in September follows a quarter where weaker demand has weighed on production and dealer inventories. Analysts suggest shifting consumer preferences and economic factors may be driving the uneven trend. The data highlights a market struggling to regain momentum after a sluggish start to the year.
The U.S. new light-vehicle market is expected to rise 6 to 9 percent in September, but cap a third quarter that will see industry deliveries drop as much as 1 percent, analysts forecast.
