Auto sales set April record

This time around, it’s consumer demand that is driving sales. In 2005, automakers offered wildly generous discounts and lease deals to keep their factories running. Some sold cars or trucks at a loss. Now, since the companies cut factory capacity during the Great Recession, they’re selling vehicles for strong prices.

“I think it’s full-steam ahead,” said Rebecca Lindland, senior analyst for Kelley Blue Book who doesn’t see any economic forces that would cause car sales to slow.

Sales last month rose 3.6 percent to an annual rate of 17.4 million. Last year the industry set a record with sales of 17.5 million.

Honda and Nissan set April records, Ford posted record SUV sales and Toyota sold more trucks and SUVs than ever.