After the scarcity and the supply difficulties, the parking lots of several dealerships are starting to fill up again, even if new vehicles are still entering in dribs and drabs.
The increase in the cost of living is beginning to catch up with the automobile market, and the appetite for vehicles is diminishing in Estrie.
While sales and lead times have exploded during the pandemic, the recent rise in the key rate is cooling the ardor of some consumers.
Even if the director of sales at Volvo Sherbrooke Gabriel Chevrier cannot directly associate the increase with the situation, he is aware that the month of August is more difficult for his business.
“We had a record year, the best since 2006 in terms of sales. On the other hand, for us, it is one of our worst beginnings of August, ”he underlines.
Same story for Kia Sherbrooke sales director Patrick Chartier.
“The demand is still good, but it is certain that someone who ordered a vehicle at a rate of 3-4% who is returned at 6-7%, it makes a difference”, explains the director.
Even if the number of orders for electric vehicles seems to be stagnating, the wait is still just as long. You have to wait two years for most models.
Note that the Bank of Canada raised its key rate by 1% on July 13 to stabilize inflation.