New car registrations grew for the 33rd consecutive month in November, up 8% to 172,327 units, according to figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

The year-to-date figure for cars registered reached 2,310,237, a rise of 9.4% and ahead of the 2013 full-year total.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “Six months after the record was broken for consecutive monthly growth in new car registrations, the market continues to march on. Today’s figures are an indication of the continuing economic confidence that is driving the new car market, with business, fleet and private registrations all showing strong rises in the month. We expect a more stable market in 2015.”

Hawes also welcomed the government confirmation of £75m to support ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEVs) in the UK as part of this week’s roads investment strategy, adding: “Demand for ULEVs is growing strongly, and we welcome the Chancellor’s commitment to support the chargepoint network for electric vehicles, as well as ULEV R&D in the UK.”

Sue Robinson, director of National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), said: “It is extremely encouraging to see that the new car market continued on its upward trend in November with overall sales up 8%.”

She added: “Competitive pricing and strong finance incentives have driven new car sales in 2014. Dealers have reported increased footfall in showrooms throughout the year and this continued in to November. The NFDA expects the market to remain strong into the new year.”