Covid may still be a barrier for many. Private new car sale are frequently to older people who will be more concerned about social distancing and risk.
Less business travel in the last 9 months means that companies can put off purchase and replacement, particularly with high levels of business uncertainty and some companies making large losses.
For both businesses and private buyers the increasing capability of EV and the likely ban on ICE means that where possible they may put off new buys until (a) the situation is clearer, and (b) more EVs come to the market with better performance and price over the next year.
Finance and lease deals coming to an end may give opportunities for manufacturers to sell, but I suspect both private and business buyers are wary of signing up to a further 3 (?) year deal, many preferring to extend their existing contracts where possible.
Unlike the good old days, a new car with routine servicing will provide reliable transport for 100k and six years or more. So it is entirely feasible to put off a purchase for several months or even a couple of years.
I would not expect the market to recover any time soon!
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