PROTON kicked-off the second half of 2018 by posting its strongest sales numbers for the last 30 months. Sales grew by 31% over the previous month as 8,102 Proton cars were sold to local car buyers and export customers. While Malaysian sales were driven by customers looking to take advantage of the zero rating for GST and before the implementation of SST in September, the resumption of export activities by the Company was what delivered a boost to the overall numbers.
Approximately 11.7% market share as Saga and Persona continue to be the most popular models… PROTON experienced a third consecutive month of market share growth with an estimated 11.7% of Total Industry Volume (TIV) for the month. This compares to the 9.6% market share it garnered in June according to numbers published by the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA).
The Saga and Persona continue to lead sales, with the former breaking through the 3,000 unit barrier for the first time in 2018… The Persona also achieved a new high point for the year as more than 2,221 sales were recorded, marking the first instance it breached the 2,000 unit barrier since May 2017.
The continued popularity of the Saga is attributed to its class leading affordability, spaciousness and handling as well as the ‘Best Saga deal in 10-years’ promotion where a brand new Saga could be bought for less than RM30,000 in June and July this year.
As for the Persona, its internationally recognized ASEAN NCAP 5 star rating, extensive safety feature list that includes Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control (TC) and 6 airbags as well as its spacious interior, 510L boot and long equipment list were key factors to attracting buyers.
“July was a very good month for PROTON as we had achieved our highest volume not just for 2018 but also for the last 30 months. We know that a big factor in boosting sales is the current tax holiday period with zero-rated GST prior to the implementation of SST in September but the numbers also prove that Malaysians are opening their eyes to the attractive buying proposition offered by the current range of Proton cars. We are therefore hopeful of carrying over this momentum even after SST has been introduced as we gear up for the launch of our first SUV later in the year,” said Abdul Rashid Musa, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON Edar.
In other news… Exports resume for the first time since collaboration with Geely
One of the main pillars outlined for the long term growth of PROTON is export sales, which kicked off in 2018 with 517 cars shipped in July. With more shipments due before the end of the year, the Company is confident of achieving its export sales target for 2018, which will act as a springboard to selling even more cars internationally over the coming years.
Currently, the most popular export market for Proton cars is the Middle East with countries like Jordan, Iraq and Iran being the main destination. Sales in Egypt are set to resume over the final quarter of the year as the country recovers from the currency crises that had hampered their car industry over the last few years.
