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KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's automotive sector is expected to face an uncertain outlook next year despite showing promising growth this year, said RHB Research.

After growing more than 10 per cent to 366,037 units in the first half of 2023, RHB Research expects the total industry volume to soften in 2024. 

"As we expect car sales to soften year-on-year in 2024, we remain Neutral on the sector. 

"We also think (automotive stocks') share prices have also largely priced in a strong 2023. Bermaz Auto Bhd remains our top pick, as its various marques will continue to see volume growth in 2024, especially from a low base."

The firm said in the recent flurry of new electric vehicle (EV) model launches, Tesla's Model Y was a standout – it is attractively priced and may turn up the heat on competitors. 

Despite incentives to encourage EV adoption in Malaysia, the firm said there are currently none priced below RM100,000 (on the road, with insurance).

"This is because the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry's approved permit (AP) policy prevents the importation of EVs priced below RM100,000. While EV adoption continues to grow, it has yet to reach a point where it can meaningfully boost total industry volume (TIV)," it said.

While the Indonesia-made Wuling Air is sold in Thailand and Indonesia for RM52,000 and RM70,000, RHB Research said there are no EVs in Malaysia that are sold that cheaply. 

This is because the AP conditions state that the importation of EVs priced below RM100,000 (on the road, with insurance) is not permitted. 

Hence, RHB Research said the cheapest EV in Malaysia is still currently the Neta V EV, priced at RM99.800. 

"We believe this policy is to protect the national marques while they work towards developing their own EVs," it added.

Source: https://www.nst.com.my/business/2023/08/940153/promising-2023-uncertain-2024-malaysias-automotive-sector