National data confirm soft numbers from automakers
- AutoData said US vehicle sales were 17.37m in December
- Wards reports they were at 17.22m (SAAR)
- The market was looking for an 18.0m pace, down slightly from 18.05m in December
Like German inflation numbers, the market has a pretty good idea of what the final tally will be before it's finally released.
- GM US December auto sales +5.7% vs +10.0% estimate
- Ford US light vehicle sales +8.3% vs +11% estimate
- Fiat Chrysler US Dec vehicle sales +13% vs +19% est
There's nothing to worry about here. Overall US light vehicle sales at 17.5m set an annual record.