KUALA LUMPUR (March 28): Proton Holdings Bhd has sold and delivered 8,500 units of the X70 sports utility vehicle (SUV)  within 100 days of its launch, making it the best seller in the local SUV segment.

In a statement, Proton said it was one of the top three automotive brands in Malaysia ranked by volume in the first two months of the year.

According to official registration figures, the X70 was the most popular car in the Malaysian car market’s SUV segment during January and February and is forecast to be maintaining the title for another consecutive month in March.

Proton Chief Executive Officer Dr Li Chunrong said that Malaysian consumers are taking a liking to the car on account of the sheer number of deliveries posted in the 100 days after its launch.

“We continue to be humbled by their support and we are working hard to deliver more units as quickly as possible to reduce the waiting time for our customers,” said Li, while expressing his delight that LHAG has decided to use the X70 as part of its fleet.

Proton is currently owned by DRB-Hicom Bhd with a 50.1% stake and the Chinese automaker Zhejiang Geely Holding Group (49.9%).

Shares in DRB-Hicom today closed two sen or 1.04% lower to RM1.90 — with 3.25 million shares being traded — giving the group a market capitalisation of RM3.71 billion.