PRO-NET Appoints Hap Seng Smart As First smart Brand Dealer

Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (PRO-NET), official importer and distributor of smart vehicles in Malaysia and Thailand has appointed its first-ever authorised dealer, Hap Seng Smart Sdn Bhd. This appointment has set a new milestone in PRO-NET’s venture into the new energy vehicle (NEV) market, with the firm poised to officially launch its first model, the smart #1, later this year.

Exterior concept design of Hap Seng Smart dealer in Balakong, Selangor

The newly-appointed Hap Seng Smart is part of the larger Hap Seng Group – an established automotive firm who’s been in business for the last five decades, in charge of other upmarket brands like Mercedes-Benz and more. By the end of this year, the firm is expected to open two new smart showrooms – one in Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, followed by another in Balakong, Selangor.

Commenting on PRO-NET’s new milestone, the firm’s CEO Zhang Qiang said, “PRO-NET believes automotive excellence is more than creating the best vehicles. It also means providing a seamless and comprehensive retail customer journey and experience. The new dealership marks PRO-NET’s entry into the premium retail automotive market, as well as the latest EV market in Malaysia.”

Harald Behrend, Group COO of Hap Seng Consolidated Berhad and CEO of Hap Seng Automotive Division, expressed his excitement for this new chapter with PRO-NET, stating that it aligns with their aim to be at the forefront of the EV industry and support Malaysia’s EV aspiration.

“This partnership between Hap Seng Group through Hap Seng Smart and PRO-NET reflects not only our confidence in smart’s universal appeal but also shows our commitment to promote a low carbon mobility future in Malaysia,” the Hap Seng boss said.

Interior design concept for new Hap Seng Smart dealer in Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur

The appointment of Hap Seng Group as the first official dealer for smart brand is no surprise, as the firm is well-known to be one of the leading Mercedes-Benz dealers in the country – a relationship that started way back in 1969. With the firm’s vast experience in delivering premium automotive retail experience, the smart brand is on the right track to become the nation’s premium EV segment leader.

“Our team is making amazing progress ever since we began the journey last year, and we are very confident that the Malaysian market will embrace the unique, premium all-electric urban mobility experience by smart," added Zhang Qiang.

To further expand its dealership network in near future, PRO-NET and smart will continue to work with outstanding business partners in the industry to introduce the premium brand experiences, products, and services. With that, the firm said more dealers are coming on board to represent the smart brand, set to be announced soon.