SUBANG JAYA: Two Proton models rule their segments and helped the automaker achieved a total sales of 10,999 units in June (domestic and export). enabling it to strengthen its hold of second place in the automotive sales table.
June sales rebounded for the updated X50, which featured more than 20 NVH improvements, among other changes.
The X50 returned to the top of the B-segment SUV class with 1,711 units sold, its best performance in three months. With production set to increase after the improvements to the plant, sales are expected to rise in the coming months.
The other model to finish at the head of its segment was the S70, which has lead C-segment sedan sales every month in 2024.
Another 1,440 units were sold in June as the newest Proton model continues to find a growing market niche.
However, overall sales volume was affected by a planned one-week plant shutdown for scheduled operations improvement activities but overall, the company achieved a market share figure of 19.1% for the month, the same as its year-to-date (YTD) market share figure.
Total sales for the first half of 2024 closed at 73,696 units.
Total industry volume (TIV) for June is forecast softer than any month this year.
An estimated 57,700 units were sold last month, lower than April, the previous low point in 2024 during a period affected by the long festive holiday.
Cumulatively however, the forecast TIV figure for the first six months of 2024 is around 386,600
units, which is nearly 20,000 units more than the same time period in 2023 when it reached a new record high.
The evergreen Saga raked in a further 5,441 units in June, bringing its YTD sales figure to 34,838 units.
On average over 5,800 units have been sold each month, making it easily one of the best-selling vehicles in the country.
More success was recorded by the Persona as its June sales of 1,309 units was enough for it to finish second both for the month and the year in the hotly contested B-segment sedan category.
As for the remaining models, the X70 and X90 achieved sales of 481 units and 248 units respectively.
The former is due to receive a comprehensive update later this year while the latter is building a steady following in the specialised seven-seater SUV market.
The Iriz meanwhile ended June with 369 units sold, finishing fourth in the B-segment hatchback category.
Aside from launching its e.MAS EV brand, Proton also celebrated the roll-out of the 5 millionth vehicle from its production line in June.
“The first six months of 2024 have been a period of consolidation for Proton as we invested in strategic moves that will benefit our future," said Proton Edar Proton Edar chief executive officer Roslan Abdullah.
"So, while the plant shutdown resulted in a short term effect on our sales numbers, the efficiencies gained as a result of the work performed will help us to catch up in the second half of the year.
"With a new model launch from smart just around the corner and the impending arrival of the first EV model from e.MAS, the market can expect more positive developments from Proton for the second half of the year.”
