KUALA LUMPUR: UMW Group's automotive sales surged 63.8% to 36,358 units in October from 22,193 units in the previous month, underpinned by improved Toyota sales and a record-breaking performance by Perodua.

       The easing of the full movement control order restrictions has led to returning sales for the automotive distributor, which expects the recovery to continue in November and December.

       For October, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) recorded 5.8% higher sales of 8,500 units compared to 8,033 units in September with the Vios continuing to lead sales, followed by the Hilux and Yaris.

       Year-to-date, UMWT has sold 54,618 units, 24.7% more than than 43,807 units registered in the corresponding period last year.

       To refresh its line-up, UMW said it has started order-taking for the new updated Toyota Hilux, Fortuner and Innova, as well as the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, its first locally assembled Toyota model with hybrid electric technology.

       Meanwhile, Perodua charted a new monthly sales record with 27,858 units sold in October, which was a huge jump from 14,160 units registered in September.

       "We are thankful to the government for the extension of the sales tax exemption as announced in the recent Budget 2022, which we believe will continue to hasten the recovery of the local automotive industry.

       "In addition, the incentives proposed for the electric vehicles is expected to promote a greater adoption of electric vehicles in the country," said UMW Holdings Bhd president and group CEO Datuk Ahmad Fuaad Kenali in a Thursday statement.