Latest industry figures show that sales of new cars in the UK have risen by 10.8% in June.

According to latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), UK new car sales increased by 10.8% in June compared with the same month last year.

The figures, released today (6 July), show that there has been growth in the car industry despite the government-backed scrappage scheme coming to an end in March this year.

New car registrations have also improved by 19.9% during the first half of 2010.

A total of 195,226 new cars were sold in June this year, mainly bolstered by an improved performance from fleet cars. Sales of fleet cars rose by 25% compared with last year’s figures.

The increase in new car registrations has come as a surprise to analysts as June 2009 was the first month consumers were able to take advantage of the scrappage scheme. The scheme was launched last year in a bid to reinvigorate the car market by allowing drivers to claim a £2000 discount on a new car if they scrapped their old one if it was older than ten years.

Paul Everitt, SMMT Chief Executive, said: “The results indicate improved business confidence and a strengthening economic recovery.

“The industry still expects challenging economic conditions in the second half of the year and government action to improve access to credit for consumers and businesses will be important in sustaining the momentum of recovery.”

June’s best-selling car was the Vauxhall Astra, with the Ford Fiesta topping the car bestseller list for the year to date.