Automakers posted strong U.S. sales this February on the backs of stable demand, stronger inventory, and increasing interest in hybrid and electric vehicles.
Ford sold 174,192 units during the month, representing a 10.5% increase on a year-over-year basis and 14% on a month-over-month basis. The automaker attributed the rise to the successes of its SUV, pickup, and electrified lineups. Ford hybrids performed exceptionally well in February, rising 32% from last year to reach 12,045 units.
Honda’s sales rose more sharply than Ford’s, although this can partially be linked to the disproportionate toll pandemic-related inventory shortages took on Asian car brands. The automaker posted monthly American sales of 110,110 units, up 32% from last year and 38% from January 2024. The manufacturer’s electric models set an all-time February sales record of 20,681 units, an increase of 68.9% from early 2023. Honda’s Acura brand improved over the previous year but at a far slower pace than its parent company, posting sales of 9,769 units, up 6% year-over-year.
Hyundai’s lineup performed well in the U.S. throughout February, although its gains were far less notable than its competitors. The automaker posted sales of 60,341 units, an increase of 6% from February 2023. Demand for its hybrid and electric vehicle offerings also struggled to match the pace of its larger rivals, with deliveries growing just 7% year-over-year. While February was still a record-breaking month for Hyundai, its year-to-date sales remained 1% behind 2023, following a 9% dip in January.
While overall sales varied heavily between brands, hybrids were a clear winner for automakers in the U.S. throughout February. As the industry continues to grapple with cooling electric vehicle demand, manufacturers will likely continue to prioritize the success of low-emission alternatives over zero-emission options.
