Auto sales up 11.4% in May

Full title: Auto sales zoom up 11.4% in May, on track for best year since 2006

Normally done with table, here it is as a list by sales over previous year:

• +12.6% - GM (284,694)
• +3% - Ford (253,346)
• +17% - Toyota (243,236)
  
• +16.7% Chrysler (194,421)
• +9% - Honda (152,603)
• +18.8% - Nissan (135,934)
• +3.7% - Hyundai (70,907)
• +22.5% - Mazda (29,731)

Since a significant fraction of Toyota sales are hybrids, it looks promising for hybrid penetration. On the other hand, the Bakken-like, sweet-light crude has moderated gasoline prices which usually reduces hybrid sales. Also, California HOV stickers for Toyota vehicles are less available while Toyota moves to Texas.

Bob Wilson