The automotive industry is being buoyed by a surge in sales across the United States.
"The industry is settling into a healthy place where supply and demand are meeting," Jessica Caldwell, an analyst with the auto research site Edmunds.com, told The New York Times. "But demand is still growing. We're edging our way into what would be the sweet spot for sales."
Caldwell's comments come after sales figures for May went up 8 percent over last year to reach 1.4 million vehicles.
Ford led the pack with strong demand continuing for its large pickup trucks and SUVs, as well an increase in sales for its smaller-sized vehicles including the Focus and Fiesta. GM also reported it sold close to half a million of its models, and the corporation said it was banking on increased sales this summer with the new launch of a refreshed version of its Malibu. Nissan also reported its highest May sales ever on seven of its models, The Associated Press reports.
According to the National Auto Dealers Association, strong auto sales are also translating into more hiring at car dealerships. The organization said that on average, car dealers in the U.S. added two new employees last year, with more hiring expected over the next seven months.