KUALA LUMPUR: The UMW Group recorded automotive sales of 25, 568 units in May, more than doubled the 11, 342 units registered a year ago during the Movement Control Order or MCO 1.0.
It said on Tuesday sales surged for both UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) and its associate company, Perodua with UMWT recording 7, 595 units and Perodua 17, 973 units.
Underpinning the rebound were new models, festive campaigns and the sales tax exemption despite the challenges brought about by the escalating rate of Covid-19 infections as well as the global shortage of semiconductor chips.
UMWT recorded sales of 7, 595 units, which was 120% higher than the 3, 456 units a year ago with Toyota Vios, Yaris and Hilux continuing to be its best-selling models. They cumulatively contributed 78% of total sales in May.
The all-new Toyota Corolla Cross and Harrier, and the improved Fortuner and Innova also contributed positively to UMWT’s sales in May.
From January-May, UMWT sold 34, 026 vehicles, a jump of 142% from the 14, 052 units in the previous corresponding period which was impacted by the MCO 1.0.
For this year, UMWT targets to sell 62, 000 units.
Perodua also fared very well where the 17, 973 units in May, which was 127.9% higher than the 7, 886 units a year ago.
“However, this was lower than the 20, 399 units achieved in April 2021, mainly due to the semiconductor chips shortage, ” it said.
UMW Group said demand remains strong for all Perodua models. Perodua introduced the refreshed Aruz (pic, above) on May 9, which offers added convenience and a new colour but maintained the model’s selling price.
From January-May, Perodua delivered 96, 281 vehicles, 82% higher than the 52, 920 units registered in the corresponding period of 2020.
UMW Group said Perodua is on track to achieve its target of 240, 000 units this year.
UMW Holdings Bhd
’s president and group CEO, Datuk Ahmad Fuaad Kenali said, “Demand for UMWT and Perodua vehicles remains strong, with both marques continuing to register healthy sales.
“However, the semiconductor chips shortage has impacted Perodua’s production and it is exploring various means to overcome this problem. Both UMWT and Perodua have a healthy level of outstanding bookings that can be fulfilled once the chips problem is resolved.”
He said under the MCO 3.0, all assembly plants and showrooms are subject to lockdown and not allowed to operate.
However, service centres are allowed to operate at reduced level of operations with strict guidelines.
Most of the service centres remain open for those with appointments and subject to strict SOPs.
“UMW expects the automotive sales momentum will continue despite the extended MCO 3.0 especially with the extension of the sales tax exemption to Dec 31, 2021, ” he said.
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