Proton builds a strong market for itself in South Africa; 1000 units shipped in just two months

KUALA LUMPUR: It was only recently that Proton decided to re-enter the South African market and in just two months the automaker has created a strong foothold in the Rainbow Nation. The popularity of the brand in the international market is credited to the Proton X50 and Proton X70.

Proton has experienced strong demand in the South African market and to date, the automaker has shipped 1,000 units.

On this achievement Proton’s International Sales Director, Steven Xu said, “The quick take up of our vehicles in South Africa is proof of the appeal of both PROTON as a brand and of our model range to car buyers there. We have a strong working relationship with CMH Group, and they have initiated many on-ground activities to give a taste of our current range to as many South Africans as possible,”

He continued, “PROTON and CMH are confident of being able to grow sales exponentially in South Africa as the response we have received thus far has been very encouraging. We are committed to providing affordable luxury SUVs for South African car buyers and the Proton X50, and Proton X70 have the right combination of features and value to compete with other brands. At the other end of the spectrum, we also feel that the Proton Saga will find its own niche with its combination of style, advanced features, and affordability.”

Proton’s journey back to South Africa

As mentioned Proton returned to the South African market after a long gap of 10 years when the brand appointed CMH Group as its distributor in the country in April 2022. The Proton’s first shipment to the South African market left from Malaysia in May 2022 and comprised the X50 and X70. The official launch, however, took place on 14th September 2022.

Under CMH leadership Proton South Africa expanded its distribution network, helping the brand enhance its market access and actively increasing its social media presence.

In the future, Proton plans to add the Saga sedan to its South African market. Also, both the automaker & CMH are optimistic about the brand’s future performance and targets to double its sales volume in 2023.

Proton export report

Proton doubled its export in 2021 and experienced growth in 2022 as well. By the end of November, 5,028 units were exported and with a month left before the year ends, the figure is expected to grow further.

The brand exports its cars to three international markets including - Pakistan, South Africa, and the kingdom of Brunei Darussalam; each ranking in the same order. Out of the models exported Proton Saga is its most popular model, followed by Proton X70 and the X50.

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