PETALING JAYA: National automotive company Proton continues to widen the gap between itself and other original equipment manufacturers (OEM) after recording sales of 16,995 units in May, despite an estimated 15.4% decline in total industry volume (TIV) compared to the previous month.
The strong performance reinforces the company’s position as one of Malaysia’s fastest-growing automotive brands in 2026 and highlights the growing appeal of its expanding portfolio of internal combustion engine (ICE), electric vehicle (EV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) models.
For the first five months of the year, Proton delivered 84,294 vehicles, representing year-to-date growth of 38% and an estimated market share of 26.7%.
Year-to-date (YTD) sales now stand at 37,375 units, a 41% increase over the same period in 2025.
Bolstering ICE model sales were strong performances posted by the Proton S70 and the Proton X50. The former achieved 2,350 units to bring its YTD total to 10,525 units, 32.5% ahead of last year. It is the third consecutive month the C-segment sedan has breached the 2,000-unit barrier, which it did only once in 2025.
The Proton X50 continues to dominate sports utility vehicle (SUV) sales, by being the best-seller in its class and segment with 2,793 units delivered in May bringing the YTD total to 12,967 units. 33.6% ahead of 2025.
Also leading its segment is the Proton X90. Launched on March 11 with a new i-GT engine, better connectivity and better value, it has undergone a sales renaissance to lead the D-segment SUV market, as 402 units delivered in May elevate its YTD total by 38.6% more than in 2025.
Proton deputy CEO Datuk Abdul Rashid Musa said, “Proton’s performance in 2026 shows Malaysians continue to respond positively to products that deliver strong value, advanced technology, and a rewarding ownership experience. What is especially encouraging is the breadth of our success. The Proton Saga remains Malaysia’s favourite car, the Proton X50 continues to lead the SUV market, while our e.MAS range is establishing itself as the benchmark for electrified mobility in Malaysia.
“As we continue to invest in new products, our retail network and after-sales capabilities, our focus remains on delivering vehicles and services that exceed customer expectations while strengthening Proton’s position as a leading automotive brand in Malaysia.”
Proton e.MAS continued its strong momentum in May, cementing its position as one of the driving forces behind Malaysia’s transition to electrified mobility. Combined deliveries of Proton e.MAS models reached 3,022 units during the month across domestic and export markets, bringing YTD sales to 14,687 units after the first five months of 2026.
Leading the charge is the Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV, which recorded its second consecutive best-ever monthly sales performance with 1,181 units delivered in May. Just four months after its launch on Feb 4, the model has rapidly established itself as Malaysia’s best-selling plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, with cumulative sales now reaching 2,936 units.
The Proton e.MAS 7 also enjoyed a breakthrough month, reclaiming its position as Malaysia’s best-selling electric vehicle. With completely-knocked-down production now stabilised, deliveries surged to 958 units, marking the model’s second-highest monthly sales total since launch and bringing its year-to-date volume to 2,394 units.
