Light Vehicle Sales Continue to Recover

In 2000, light vehicle sales reached a peak of more than 17 million. Sales remained above 16 million units until 2007. Due to economic conditions, sales dropped off sharply in 2008 and reached a low in 2009 of 10.4 million units for a decline of about 40% compared to sales levels in 2000. Since 2009, light vehicle sales have begun to recover with sales reaching 12.7 million units in 2011.