[THE INVESTOR] Sales of imported diesel cars plummeted by 42.2 percent in July compared to the same month last year, hit by Volkswagen’s emission-rigging scandal, industry figures showed on Aug. 4.

According to data from the Korea Automobile Importers and Distributors Association, a total of 8,286 units of diesel engine cars were sold in July, compared to 14,325 units a year earlier. 

Their market share went down from 69.2 percent to 52.7 percent of all imported cars.

The fall was led by Volkswagen and Audi cars that have been caught up in the scandal, repelling their customers. In July, VW sold only 425 cars, down 85.8 percent on-year, while Audi sold 2,638 units, down 42.5 percent. The loss in sales of two diesel-heavy brands brought the entire diesel market figure down.

Industry experts also cite increased public concern over the impact of diesel vehicles on air pollution behind the decline, as well as the government’s push to curb diesel vehicles as part of measures to counter fine dust in the country.

Meanwhile, gasoline models sold 6,246 units in July, up 13.9 percent on-year, while hybrid models sold 1,181 units, up 50.8 percent on-year. However, electric vehicle sales declined 84.3 percent to 17 units in the same period.

Among all diesel models, BMW’s 520d became the best-seller in July with 448 units sold, followed by Mercedes-Benz’ C220 d, which sold 445 units, and Land Rover’s Discovery Sport TD4 with 319 units.

By Ahn Sung-mi (sahn@heraldcorp.com)