US demand for performance cars is soaring, according to manufacturers.
"Performance vehicle sales around the world continue to grow - with sales up 70% in the United States and 14% in Europe since 2009," claims Dave Pericak, director of Ford Performance.
With manufacturers suspending new orders so they can fulfil their current order books, the New York auto show paraded performance models in virtually every segment, rather than the usual luxury vehicles.
Performance variants includes power upgrades, firmer suspension and bigger wheels and tyres. They may also include body kits, special badges and unique paint colours. According to some manufacturers, it appears the financial crisis may finally be over.
Chevrolet Camaro Image: GM |
Tim Kuniskis, head of Dodge and SRT says 9,000 Hellcat model orders have been placed since mid-March: "We're up over 90% on those cars [since the crisis]. If you look at Charger, we're up about 90%. If you look at Challenger, we're up 95% at retail."
Manufacturers are not just seeing dollar signs and different, younger and affluent buyers with a need for speed; performance cars also provide opportunties for testing and innovation.