Government vehicle sales are seeing an increase that has continued into August 2024 with truck and SUV sales experiencing a significant bump compared to car sales, according to Bobit/Government Fleet sales data released September 4.

Government Sales Solidifying a Normal Return

As the numbers would indicate, so far, overall vehicle sales within the government sector are looking healthier than in the past year. Compared to August of 2023, August 2024 had a 5.7% increase selling a total of 25,670 vehicles, which was 1,381 more vehicles sold than in August of 2023 [Hyundai, Nissan, Subaru, and Toyota sales numbers were not present for government fleets].

Truck and SUV sales were up by 10.2% in August 2024 with a total of 24,978 vehicles sold compared to the 22,656 sold in 2023. And while the month had an above average total monthly sales, May still saw the highest number with 26,507 government vehicles sold. 

2024 Year-to-Date Vehicle Sales

Looking at current reports of the total number of government vehicles sold in 2024 so far, overall sales are showing a 2.5% increase compared to 2023. Again, truck and SUV sales lead the charge with an 8.8% increase over last year, jumping from 172,615 to 187,794, a 15,179 vehicle difference. 

Car Sales Still Working to Catch Up

While overall sales for government vehicles are up monthly and total car sales are still trying to keep pace. August 2024 car sales only came in at 692 vehicles sold, a 57.6% decrease compared to August 2023, which saw 1,633 vehicles sold. 

This year, there have only been a reported 4,787 car sales to date. Comparing this to 2023's numbers, this is a difference of 10,528, with last year's numbers during this time coming in at 15,315, accounting for a 68.7% decrease this year. 

Still, the bigger picture is that government vehicle sales have bolstered. Fleets have been working to stay with demand. And while there does seem to be a recovery public sector fleets have had to work through various recalls. This could change vehicle sale numbers throughout the year.