New light-duty vehicle sales in 2020 totaled 14.6 million, about the same as in 2012, and a 15% decline from 2019.
February 8, 2021New light-duty vehicle sales in 2020 totaled 14.6 million, about the same as in 2012, and a 15% decline from 2019. Historically, vehicle sales have experienced wide swings in response to economic factors, such as the 21% decline in sales from 2008 to 2009 during the Great Recession.
![Line graph showing new light-duty vehicle sales from 1970 to 2020](/sites/default/files/styles/full_article_width/public/2021/02/f82/fotw1172.png?itok=RRWfI9W1)
Note: Includes all vehicles up to 14,000 lbs. gross vehicle weight rating.
Source: Ward’s Automotive.
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