All about Proton

Reported on May 3, 2024, Proton has confirmed that the launch of its first PHEV model will take place in 2025, around the same time as its first BEV model. 

The Malaysian carmaker has yet to provide further details on its PHEV model, but it will be likely based on an existing model of its partner, Geely.

In addition, Proton has also revealed that the upcoming facelifted X70 will feature Level 2 autonomous driving capabilities for the first time. Moreover, the 1.8-liter turbocharged petrol powertrain choice has also been discontinued, making the 1.5L Premium X variant the top variant of the X70 line-up.

Previously, the 1.8-liter engine for the X70 was imported from China, while the 1.5 liter 3-cylinder unit is locally assembled at the Tanjung Malim plant.

(From an article of Paul Tan on May 3, 2024 and on May 6, 2024)

Reported on May 3, 2024, Malaysian car manufacturer Proton’s vendors were reportedly facing severe financial strain during the past few months as Proton was unable to honor the number of parts it ordered for its SUV models.

According to Proton, it was adjusting production to clear outstanding stock, hence the reduction in orders. This issue followed an unexpected slowing of sales due to the arrival of many competitors from China, particularly Chery. 

Proton has 127 suppliers, but 3 major suppliers were unable to deliver the parts and held up the supply chain. This is what has been happening for the past 3 months, Proton added.

The company said it has also requested its local vendors to focus on reducing prices to enable its vehicles to be sold at prices that met expectations. 

The product refreshes, including a facelifted Proton X70, planned to be launched in 2024, are expected to help bring sales back to normal levels.

(From an article of Paul Tan on May 3, 2024)

Announced on May 6, 2024, Proton recorded sales (domestic and export) of 11,025 cars in April 2024, an increase of 17.1% YoY. This brought its sales in the first 4 months of 2024 to 50,175 units, up around 1.0% YoY. The market share for Proton in April and in the first 4 months of 2024 are estimated at 18.7% and 19.2%, respectively. 

In April 2024, Proton sales were led by the Saga, X50, and S70, which sold 5,031 units, 1,642 units, and 1,635 units, respectively.

In the first 4 months of 2024, exports sales alone soared 38.5% YoY to 835 units. This was led by Proton Saga with 427 units, Proton X50 with 176 units, and Proton S70 with 89 units. Proton said it is confident of achieving sustainable exports sales growth in 2024. Proton has added Trinidad and Tobago to its export portfolio in 2024 and reestablished its foothold in Bangladesh. 

According to Proton, the slowdown in automotive sales in April, where total industry volume (TIV) shrank by 16.8% MoM, can be attributed to the long holiday to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri. Proton said it is confident of the market rebounding in the short to medium term as there is still a lot of demand from car buyers.

(From Proton press release on May 6, 2024)