STUTTGART (dpa-AFX) - After a slight decline last year, carmakers' sales figures could show strong growth this year, according to consulting firm Ernst & Young (EY). "The delivery situation is improving. As a result, global sales could rise by up to ten percent this year," said Constantin Gall, head of the mobility division for Western Europe at EY, on the occasion of an analysis of key figures of the world's 16 largest car companies published on Friday. After significant supply problems last year, he said, the supply of semiconductors and other precursors will continue to improve this year - and with it the delivery situation.

In 2022, global sales were down 2.7 percent, according to the analysis. Nevertheless, the industry posted record sales and profits - because it was able to push through high prices. Sales by the largest automakers, for example, rose 18 percent to 1.87 trillion euros. Operating profit rose by 16 percent to almost 157 billion euros.

According to Gall, the challenge for companies this year will be to nevertheless keep prices high and not allow any cuts in margins - the ratio of profit to sales. Because of the weak economy, demand is expected to weaken, he said, and there will be a strong temptation to respond by cutting prices.

On average, companies achieved an operating margin of 8.4 percent in 2022. This was slightly lower than in the previous year (8.5 percent), but significantly higher than in previous years. According to the report, U.S. electric carmaker Tesla achieved the highest margin at 16.8 percent, followed by Stuttgart-based automaker Mercedes-Benz at 13.6 percent and Opel parent company Stellantis at 11.7 percent. BMW landed at 9.8 percent and Volkswagen at 7.9 percent./rwi/DP/stk