EVER since the implementation of a series of lockdowns, the automotive industry in the country has been stuttering.
When the showrooms were not allowed to open, car sales plummeted.
This had taken a toll on many industry players, who had to suffer huge losses.
However, in accordance with the updated standard operating procedures (SOPs) by the authorities last week, many businesses in the phase two of the National Recovery Plan (NRP) can now operate.
They are now heaving a sigh of relief.
In an interview with Buletin Mutiara recently, Toyota dealer branch manager Ivan Choong said many car showrooms were unable to open since the restrictions were imposed in June this year.
He said many people, who have been staying at home due to the rising Covid-19 cases, have put their purchase plans on hold.
“Therefore, we really felt the pinch during the previous month, so much so our sales plunged by about 95% to 97%.
“It was difficult for us to deliver the cars to the customers as the vehicles are produced in Kuala Lumpur.
“However, as the authorities have given us permission to operate, our car delivery can now resume to meet the backlog orders.
“Many of our customers’ orders were placed in April or May,” he said, adding that the current popular Toyota models include Vios and Corolla Cross.
His counterpart, Dennis Ooi Shi Chen, who is the Platinum Lifestyle Corporation Sdn Bhd sales manager, said many of the car salesmen opt for online platform and social media to sell the cars.
“Our orders have fallen by 50% to 60% due to this pandemic. The uncertainty caused by this unprecedented situation has caused many people to be cautious, especially in their spending power.
“We can’t do much, but to keep hoping for the best. We are happy that our showrooms can be reopened, but our revenue has dropped drastically.
“Let’s keep our fingers crossed for the next quarter, but the vaccination rate must be ramped up,” he said.
The popular models of Proton are Proton X50 and Proton X70.
Peugeot’s Maxim Lifestyle Gallery Sdn Bhd manager Ong Wei Sheng also concurred with the duo, saying that his business has seen a 50% plunge.
On the other hand, he said Peugeot’s cars were available in the country.
“As long as the showrooms are allowed to reopen, then we can proceed to supply the vehicles to our customers.
“The car sales’ tax reduction period has also been extended to the end of this year.
“Grab the chance now and purchase your ideal car before the deadline ends,” he said.
The popular Peugeot models are 3008 Allure Plus and 5007 Allure Plus.
Also present was Auto Lifestyle Group managing director Fire Ooi Choon Lim.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Chan Kok Kuan