According to Proton, it delivered 789 vehicles to Brunei in 2023, an 87% increase over the 422 vehicles it sold there a year earlier in 2022. With such a result, Proton’s market share increased by 2.2% to 5.4%, placing it fifth among vehicle brands in Brunei—one spot higher than in 2022.
In an official press release, Proton said the X50 was its best-selling model in Brunei, making up approximately 60% of total sales with 476 units. According to Steven Xu, director of the international sales division at Proton:
“The popularity of the Proton X50 in Brunei can be attributed to clear communications about its value and features, as well as our brand equity. Proton worked closely with our importers, Pad Motors, to promote the competitive price and superior features the model had over its rivals while also offering finance packages to make ownership easier. This was then bolstered by our on-ground activities to promote the Proton brand, which were assisted by the success of the X50 in Malaysia that helped build the confidence of Brunei customers.”
Meanwhile, other Proton models ranked in the top 10 of their respective segments in Brunei last year. These include the Persona (6th) and Iriz (8th) among B-segment vehicles, as well as the X90 (7th) among D-segment SUVs, despite having been on sale for less than half a year.
Related: With 10,000 Units Export Target, Will Proton Bring the S70 to Pakistan?
Proton expects to sell more than 1,000 vehicles in Brunei by 2024, with the newly launched S70 playing a key role in achieving this goal. The sedan debuted in Malaysia in November 2023, and Brunei is set to become its first export market. Proton intends to debut the S70 there by the end of February, with 15 units already shipped a month before the formal launch.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com