Car sales in Western Europe have soared in November, according to the latest figures from the European Automobile Manufacturers Association.

The statistics indicate the biggest single monthly rise so far in 2004, as the number of units sold rose by 9.5 per cent to 1.14 million.

The upward curve is being largely attributed to the introduction of a range of new models by manufacturers including Volkswagen, with overall sales having now risen 1.7 per cent in the first 11 months in comparison with 2003.

Germany, Europe's largest car market, saw its sales rise by 11 per cent last month, while strong sales in France also helped to push up the figures. In France the automotive industry enjoyed an 18 per cent rise in sales during November.

Analysts also pointed to the inclusion of two extra working days in November 2004 as a key factor in the rise, but the news is likely to encourage analysts hoping for a good performance in the market as the year draws to a close.

Big winners in November's upswing included DaimlerChrysler, which saw sales in Europe jump 12 per cent, and General Motors, which enjoyed the same boost.