"Proton Has Plans For Comprehensive NEV Solutions" - Tengku Zafrul

Anis

04 April 2023 at 08:15 AM

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As confirmed by the Minister of International Trade and Industry (MITI), YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, our national carmaker Proton is shifting into the New Energy Vehicle (NEV) segment. Following the Malaysia - China Business Forum, which was held in Beijing for business leaders from both countries and was attended by our Prime Minister, YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz recently visited China to accelerate Malaysia's entry into the NEV market.

Furthermore, during his visit to Ningbo, YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz previewed a range of Geely Group NEV models at the Zeekr Intelligent Factory in Hangzhou Bay, Ningbo, China, in order to map out a more comprehensive plan for Malaysia and Proton's NEV journey. While the majority of Proton's model lineup is still comprised of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, the company has already established a NEV strategy for the near future. The Proton X90, which will be powered by a mild-hybrid version of its 1.5 TGDI engine, will be the first step in this direction.

Furthermore, PRO-NET, Proton's electric subsidiary, will launch the Smart #1 in the Malaysian market in the fourth quarter of 2023. Following the minister's visit, there are now plans to expand the range of offerings and include vehicle segments new to Proton.

Dr. Li Chunrong, Proton CEO, said, “PROTON is now in the second half of its ten-year business plan. Besides the hiccups caused by two years of pandemic control measures, we are pleased with the progress made so far. Over the next five years, we aim to work even more closely with Geely and expand our offerings as the market for NEVs grows.”

"We will also expand our focus to include other aspects that support the industry. For example, charging infrastructure development is a priority for NEVs so we will optimize synergy with Geely group of companies to enhance the NEV infrastructure for PROTON and the ecosystem in Malaysia.” He added.

Furthermore, Proton has already taken steps towards achieving the brand's long-term goals, including the establishment of a permanent office at the Geely Automobile Research Institute (GRI) in Hangzhou Bay to facilitate all development activities between the engineering teams. Proton has also invested more than RM3.3 billion in its performance turnaround initiatives since 2018, with support from DRB-HICOM and Geely. These initiatives cover product development, new technology integration, manufacturing expansion, and human capital development, particularly in NEV and emerging technologies.