Following a record-breaking year in 2024 with Total Industry Volume (TIV) reaching 813,521 units, the Malaysian automotive market experienced a downturn in January 2025. The decline was attributed to high sales in December 2024 and the impact of the Chinese New Year festive period. An estimated 50,278 vehicles were sold in January 2025, marking a 38.7% drop from the 81,987 units sold in December 2024 and a 24.9% decline from the 66,925 units recorded in January 2024.
Proton Reports Market Share Growth Despite Industry Slowdown
Amid the overall decline, Proton’s total sales for January 2025—including domestic, export, Proton e.MAS, and smart car models—stood at 9,914 units. This figure compares to 12,882 units of internal combustion engine (ICE) cars sold in January 2024. Despite the lower volume, Proton’s estimated market share rose to 19.7%, up from 18.7% last year. The company credited the performance to strong sales of the Proton e.MAS 7, a surge in exports, and three Proton models leading their respective segments.
Proton e.MAS 7 Emerges as Malaysia’s Best-Selling EV
The Proton e.MAS 7, launched on December 16, 2024, has gained significant traction in Malaysia’s electric vehicle (EV) market. Over 4,000 units have been booked, prompting Proton to release an additional 3,000 units with launch package benefits. Deliveries began in early 2025, with 421 units reaching customers in January, making it Malaysia’s best-selling EV with a 25% share of the total EV market.
