KUALA LUMPUR: UMW Group's automotive sales rose 48% over the preceding month to 35,246 units in March 2022, underpinned by higher sales in both UMW Toyota Motor and associate company Perodua.

       In a statement, the group said UMW Toyota's sales climbed 32% month-on-month (m-o-m) to 8,487 units in March while Perodua's sales jumped 54% since February to 26,759 units.

       "Both companies are on track to achieve their sales target for the year, and are ramping-up production based on the available capacity to expedite the delivery of vehicles to our customers.

       "Furthermore, both companies plan to introduce several all-new and facelift models this year to drive sales and achieve their targets," said UWM Holdings Bhd president and group CEO Datuk Ahmad Fuaad Kenali.

       According to Ahmad Fuaad, the top selling Toyota models in the first quarter of the year were the Hilux, Vios, Corolla Cross and Yaris.

       The company also made efforts to strengthen its brand in Malaysia by launching Season 5 of the Toyota GAZOO Racing Festival in March.

       Perodua sales in 1Q meanwhile were led by the recently facelifted Myvi, Axia and Bezza.

       "While the Covid-19 pandemic and component supply issues continue to linger, Perodua is working closely with its suppliers and dealers to minimise the impact to its customers," said Ahmad Fuaad.