KUALA LUMPUR: Proton registered its highest 2019 sales in December, growing 112 per cent over the corresponding month in 2018 to 11,117 units.
This is equivalent to a 20.5 per cent share of total industry volume (TIV) in December and also the first time the company has sold more than 11,000 cars in a month since July 2014.
Proton said as a result of strong monthly performances, its total sales for the whole year stood at 100,821 units (domestic and export), the first time it has crossed the 100,000 unit threshold since 2015.
The final number equates to an increase of 55.7 per cent over 2018, giving Proton the highest sales growth in 2019 for the top five automotive brands in Malaysia.
Proton’s overall market share for the year is estimated to be at 16.7 per cent, the highest figure since 2014.
Proton said in 2019, its sales growth was driven mainly from the X70, along with double-digit percentage increases in sales for the four updated models it launched in 2019.
“The Proton X70 began its first full year of sales strongly and set the record for being the fastest-selling premium SUV in Malaysia.
“It maintained its position at the head of its segment for the entire year and ended 2019 with a total of 26,331 units sold, making it the leader within its segment,” it said.
Sales of the Saga continued its upward trajectory from its launch on August 6.
The youngest model in Proton’s range was again the most popular A-segment sedan with 3,892 units sold in December.
Total sales for 2019 closed at 38,144 units, equivalent to a 36 per cent increase in volume.
“Proton X70 and Proton Saga are two major ingredients to Proton’s sales success this year. We are humbled by the popularity of the X70 and would like to say a big thank you to all our customers for their support, despite it being a brand new market segment for the company.
“As for the Saga, with over 41,000 bookings and counting, it remains as our core product and is a popular choice regardless of a buyer’s age, status and purchasing power, making it a car for all Malaysians,” said Proton chief executive officer Dr Li Chunrong.
“While sales of the Persona were very strong following the launch of the updated model, the numbers posted in December show many are becoming increasingly aware of the outstanding features, practicality and value we offer in our family sedan. Proton is confident of maintaining these numbers in 2020, so the company has at least three sales leaders in their respective segments,” Li added.
Proton said it now has 120 3S/4S outlets as at December 31.
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