The latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) for May have revealed new car demand in the UK has now recovered to higher than pre-recession levels.

According to the organisation's data, UK new car registrations rose by 11 per cent last month to 180,111 vehicles, with private sector demand up by 20.9 per cent on the same month last year and now higher than figures recorded in 2007.

Overall, registrations for the year to date are now up by 9.3 per cent on the same time in 2012.

SMMT interim chief executive Mike Baunton commented: "While it is clear that buying confidence among UK motorists is very strong, continued economic uncertainty abroad, particularly in the rest of Europe, will mean that manufacturers remain cautious about performance in the second half of 2013."

Earlier this month, the SMMT announced the appointment of its new permanent chief executive, with Michael Hawes set to take over from Mr Baunton in the autumn.

Does your fuel card provider offer zero-liability on your fuel card transactions, to cover lost or stolen fuel cards?

Clare Lafferty of The Fuelcard People can help you have complete peace of mind with your fuel card purchases with Card Protect, our exclusive insurance scheme protecting you against loss or theft.

The BP fuel card is just one of the fuel card products that can be covered with Card Protect, zero-liability insurance.

Posted by Clare Lafferty, Account Manager, The Fuelcard People.