Ford entered this month's race for "56" plate sales in pole position according to latest vehicle registration data out today.

The blue oval's wealth of 2006 model launches and celebrations are strengthening Ford's leadership of the car and commercial vehicle markets. This year the company will secure 30 consecutive years as Britain's top-selling car brand.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders confirms:

• Funky Ford Ka has taken over 17,000 sales this year and continues to dominate the city car segment while celebrating its 10th birthday this month. Second-placed competitor is on under 9,000 registrations
• Sporty and stylish Ford S-MAX overtakes 10 other Multi-Purpose Vehicles in first three months on sale. Total registrations of over 1,500 include half to customers new to Ford
• All-new Ford Transit, which went into production at Southampton assembly plant in May, is winning over new customers and driven volumes up four per cent versus last year. Sales of smaller Ford Transit Connect soar by 30 per cent
• Refreshed Ford Fiesta, launched earlier this year, remains country's most popular small car

Roelant de Waard, Ford of Britain chairman, said: "These exciting additions are attracting interest from a wider range of customers, with the result that our total market share of over 16 per cent is up on a year ago. This month's bumper "56" plate business will bring even more newcomers to Ford."

Other Ford highlights in the SMMT's figures include:

• 221,400 car and 58,000 commercial vehicle sales year-to-date secure first place
• Ford Focus is top car overall, as well as best-selling fleet and diesel car
• Ford Mondeo is champion large car taking one in five sales in segment
• Success of Transit Connect triggers 21 per cent hike in Ford's light commercial vehicle volumes