The Proton X70, the first SUV from PROTON, has successfully achieved a 5-star rating after being tested by the New Car Assessment Program for Southeast Asian Countries (ASEAN NCAP). Details for the latest round of ASEAN NCAP tests have been released, showing the newest Proton model sits near the top of its segment for occupant safety. With a proven track record for manufacturing cars that obtain a 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating to defend – the Proton Iriz, Proton Persona, Proton Preve and Proton Suprima S are all 5-star rated, PROTON’s engineers and designers paid close attention to every detail to ensure the Proton X70 would obtain a high score based on the latest 2017-2020 testing protocol. Under the new protocol, safety assist technology is now taken into consideration and counts for 25% of the overall score.
PROTON introduced Hot Press Forming (HPF) body structures, used to form the passenger cell of its cars, in 2012 and the same technology is one of the reasons why the Proton X70 is able to provide a high level of protection to its occupants. The HPF cell is supplemented with six airbags for all variants, ISOFIX child seat mounting points as well as seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters. By combining these elements, the Proton X70 received a perfect score for the side impact test as well as for head protection technology.
The SUV is also PROTON’s first model to be equipped with a number of safety assist features. Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS)are all part of the advanced driver assistance system introduced with the Proton X70. Thus equipped, the SUV was able to obtain a high score for safety assist technology. For the FULL report from NCAP on the Proton X70, click to download this: Proton X70 ASEAN NCAP Report FULL
“Thanks to the diligent efforts of PROTON’s designers and engineers, the Company has managed to extend its reputation for building cars capable of protecting their occupants in the event of an accident. Aside from the advanced driver assistance system that is making its debut on a Proton model, the Proton X70 is also fitted with various convenience features such as voice command, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Intelligent High Beam Control (IHBC) and a 360 camera for safe manoeuvring in tight spaces,” said Abdul Rashid Musa, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON Edar.
Proton X70 to be shown at KLIMS
Following a series of closed-door previews for invited guests and media, the Proton X70 will be making its public debut at the 2018 Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS). Five units of the car will be put on display and visitors are encouraged to get up close and personal with the first C-segment premium SUV from a Malaysian automotive brand. There will also be special display areas to highlight the technology, safety and performance aspects of the vehicle.
“PROTON is now ready for our SUV to meet the Malaysian public. Visitors to KLIMS will be given full access to our show cars and we encourage everyone to explore the various design, technology, safety and performance aspects of the Proton X70 by spending some time at our interactive areas to get to know it better. There are a lot of technological and specification firsts for PROTON with this model so we want to make sure all our customers are able to fully appreciate what we hope will be a game changer for the Company,” said Abdul Rashid Musa.
KLIMS will be held at the Malaysian International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur from 23 November to 2 December 2018. The Proton X70 can be viewed at PROTON’s display located on Level 1, Hall 1 and at Booth 1007.
PROTON announced recently that it has received over 10,000 bookings for the Proton X70 SUV during the official launch of Ming Heng Motor Sdn Bhd, a new 4S dealer in Setapak. The Company also confirmed that it exceeded its 3S/4S outlet submission approval target of 109 and that more applications to open such outlets were still being received. PROTON’s highly anticipated first SUV, the Proton X70, was made available for prelaunch bookings from 8 September. Interested parties were invited to place a deposit at a PROTON outlet but since 17 October, they have also been able to use an online booking platform, allowing bookings to be made from anywhere with an Internet connection.
To date the response from Malaysians has been very encouraging as total bookings now total over 10,000 units of which nearly 2,000 were made online, thus confirming the Company made the correct decision to develop and launch the platform. “We are thankful to all Malaysians for the support they have given to PROTON since we started accepting bookings for the Proton X70. Despite our need to control the flow of information prior to its launch, the response has been very encouraging as we have received over 10,000 bookings with those placed online via our booking platform exceeding our expectations. We were unsure how customers would react to this new method to book a car but its success points to how cars might be sold in the future” said Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON (above).
“Now we ask for a little bit more patience from everybody as we make the final preparations for the launch of the Proton X70. This will be the first Proton SUV as well as the first car to be jointly developed by PROTON and Geely. We are working hard to ensure it meets the expectations of buyers and are also investing heavily in our outlets and dealerships so that we have the necessary sales and after sales resources to support such an important product,” he added.
Target for 3S/4S outlet approvals achieved…
Having stated its target to achieve 109 submission approvals for 3S/4S outlets earlier in the year, PROTON announced it has now exceeded the target amount. To date, 113 outlet submission approvals have been recorded, accounting for a 104% achievement against the set target. “We are very proud of this achievement as it means the market has responded well to the PROTON brand by deeming it as a good investment. I commend the efforts of our existing dealers who took the opportunity to stay invested with us as well as the new dealers for their faith and vision to see the potential for PROTON in the current and future automotive market,” added Dr Li.
“When JD Power released their 2018 Sales Satisfaction Index ranking (SSI) for mass market automotive brands, it showed PROTON had improved to sixth in the table with a score of 782 points. While we are not satisfied, we still managed to surpass the score of some of our major rivals, which is a sign our customers have responded positively to our efforts to serve them better. I believe with a concerted effort, we can achieve our target to be ranked in the top-3 by 2019,” he added.
New 4S outlet opens in Setapak… Ming Heng Motor Sdn Bhd (Ming Heng) is the newest 4S dealership to join the list of PROTON 4S outlets. Situated along Jalan Genting-Klang, the facility has a built-up area of 3074 square meters and cost RM6 million to build. On-site facilities and amenities include 14 work bays with 12 service hoists, a customer lounge, coffee area, free Wi-Fi, kids’ play area, laptop and mobile charging facilities as well as prayer rooms for the convenience of customers. The body and paint shop is still being commissioned and will be operational by December 2018.
“The decision to apply for a dealership was made because Ming Heng is confident of the potential the PROTON brand has for the future. We are thankful our proposal was accepted and look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship that is focussed on delivering the best products and customer service to all customers,” said Eric Lee, Chief Executive Officer of Ming Heng Motor Sdn Bhd.
In our last report on the new Proton X70 SUV here, we mentioned that online bookings would commence soon, and well folks today they have!
From Proton: Booking a brand new SUV from PROTON has become easier than ever with the launch of the Company’s online booking platform. Accessed via PROTON’s corporate website, the new platform went live at 10am today 17 October to allow customers to book the Proton X70 from anywhere using any device with Internet access.
Visiting a virtual showroom
Following the preview of its connectivity and technology features to the media on 11 October, the Proton X70 set another benchmark by being the first Proton model that can be booked online. With an embedded eSIM card, Wi-Fi connectivity, preloaded apps offering services like online radio, online music, navigation and weather forecasts as well as advanced voice recognition software, Proton’s first SUV is perfectly suited to launch the service.
Customers who want to book a unit are required to provide their personal details, preferred model and colour choice as well as the city and state where they wish to collect their car. Following payment of the booking fee, also done online, a system-generated receipt will be sent to the customer’s email. PROTON then assigns a sales advisor to handle the order who contacts the customer within seven days to process the booking. As with bookings made at any PROTON outlet, a full refund is given should a customer change their mind.
In conjunction with the launch of the online booking portal PROTON will also feature full details of the Proton X70 on its website, including full specifications for each model variant. The information helps customers to make a decision, especially with regards to variant and colour choice, and is akin to visiting a showroom and viewing a full sales presentation.
As this is a new sales tool for the Company, PROTON is holding a ‘flash sale’ from 17-19 October to promote the use of its new platform. During the three-day promotional period, customers who book the Proton X70 via the platform only need to pay a booking fee of RM99.
“After studying consumer preferences and market trends, PROTON believes the time is right to offer an online booking facility to our customers. The platform allows bookings to be made from anywhere a customer is as long as there is an Internet connection available. The Company has also decided to reward those who make a booking prior to the launch of the Proton X70. This will come in the form of special gifts for all early birds regardless of whether they booked their unit online or at our outlets,” said Abdul Rashid Musa, Chief Executive Officer of Proton Edar.
Customer previews continue to East Malaysia
The Proton X70 customer previews have now crossed the South China Sea to East Malaysia with sessions held in Kuching on 15-16 October. Following on from the second media preview, the events focussed on the connectivity and technology functions offered by the SUV while also explaining about the styling elements used for the exterior and interior. The previews will continue in Kuantan and Ipoh with the final session due to be held in Kota Kinabalu.
“The customer response to the Proton X70 has been overwhelming. Attendance at our preview sessions has been very high with the majority of attendees saying they are impressed by the quality and specification offered on the first model to be jointly developed by PROTON and Geely. It will be a game changer for PROTON and customers acknowledge this, judging by the strong pre-launch booking numbers. Therefore we are working hard to ensure the cars delivered meet the heightened expectations of our customers,” added Abdul Rashid.
As promised, slightly over a month after showing their new SUV to the Malaysian media at a static preview, PROTON have released more details about the Proton X70 through a second more in-depth media preview today! This second round of previews for the first co-developed vehicle by Geely and PROTON concentrated exclusively on the Integrated Cockpit Information System (GKUI), which will offer owners multiple user functions via apps as well as the option to stay connected to the car via their mobile device. Here’s our first impression following the first viewing of the static launch model today!
(NB: NO photography or any recording whatsoever was allowed during this media preview, so these are just my first-impression thoughts on the Proton X70 – Chris Wee, Editor Piston.my)
Additional Points: Proton X70 is equipped with a 1.8-litre engine producing 135kW (184bhp), Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning Assist, Blind-Spot Warning, Lane-Departure Warning, 360-deg All-Round camera, Rear View Camera, High-Beam Assist (automatically dips the high-beam if an oncoming car is detected), Park Distance Assist w/Guide Lines & Audible Warning. Claimed Combined Fuel Consumption 8.0L /100km.
Hosting the media exclusive event was Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer PROTON, Dato’ Radzaif Mohamed, Deputy Chief Executive Officer PROTON, and senior management members of PROTON who explained the features of the GKUI and answered queries relating to the highly anticipated SUV.
Voice Commands allow you to ‘talk’ to your X70 to perform basic functions like switching on the radio, A/C, lowering the windows, opening the sunroof, as well as finding restaurants, ATMs, petrol, etc.
A car that connects users to the world…
Featuring an embedded eSIM card, the GKUI in the Proton X70 is preloaded with five apps offering services such as online radio, online music, navigation, weather forecasts and voice recognition. Access to the apps and other car functions is via an 8-inch Android based touchscreen interface featuring a 1280 x 720 full colour display with 16GB of internal memory space. The system also has Wi-Fi connectivity so the X70 can be used as a mobile hotspot.
To fully exploit the connectivity capabilities, owners can pair their cars with their personal mobile device via Proton Link and use an individual ID that is assigned to every buyer. They can then create a profile of their driving thanks to the on board telematics that will record data such as distance travelled, fuel economy, journey times and even keep track of service intervals. There is also a ‘find my car’ function that will be particularly useful when parking in huge and unfamiliar parking complexes.
If you’re familiar with using a ‘Smartphone’ (who isn’t), the X70’s functions are incredibly easy to operate, and looks good too, with switchable wallpapers and moveable icons. Software updates are free and ‘over-the-air’
“The GKUI system in the Proton X70 allows owners to stay almost constantly connected to their car. It’s an active two-way system that allows for multiple options to fit the preferences of individual owners. In the future, the ability to download additional apps will also be offered and just like mobile devices, it means no two cars will be exactly alike,” said Abdul Rashid Musa, Chief Executive Officer of Proton Edar.
Display changes colour from Blue (normal), Green (eco) & Red (sport) according to chosen driving mode; fully digital, it shows different readings including the pressure in each tyre (TPM)
Because it runs on an Android operating system, the GKUI offers Android mobile device users full mirroring capabilities. That means apps owners have on their device can be accessed on the Proton X70’s touchscreen thus offering yet more connectivity possibilities. Apple OS user won’t be able to do the same though they will be able to connect to the X70 via Bluetooth to access telephone and contact list functions.
Definitely very Range Rover Evoque-ish from the back, especially with that tapered window-line, X70 size is comparable to a Honda CR-V…
Voice recognition allows true hands free operation…
True hands free operation of a number of functions on the Proton X70 is now possible thanks to advanced voice recognition software that allows the use of spoken commands. Access to the system is granted when an owner utters the phrase ‘Hi Proton’ which opens up a variety of choices that can be controlled simply by speaking a command. This includes operating the windows and air conditioning system and even accessing the navigation app to look for places to eat nearby.
9-speaker ICE system including a sub-woofer “as big as a spare tyre” in the back, plus 6 USB chargers can be found throughout the X70. Pictured Nappa Leather seats option only available in the premium variant…
“The Proton X70 is the first Proton model to use voice recognition technology, which is something we think our owners will appreciate. Hundreds of voice samples were recorded for each phrase to ensure the system would have a high degree of accuracy even when you take dialects into account. For ease of use, the GKUI will also type out each spoken phrase on the screen to confirm each command. Currently, the GKUI offers voice recognition for English phrases only as there are software limitations but we have ensured the phrases it recognises are easy to use even for owners who are not fluent speakers of the language,” added Abdul Rashid.
Why on earth is there a hidden USB port behind the rear-view mirror? Well, in case you want to install a dash-cam later of course. Why hasn’t anyone else thought of this?
Online bookings for X70 to begin soon…
In line with the high technology image of its first SUV, PROTON will be activating an online booking function on its website on 17 October 2018. Customers who are interested to place a booking for the Proton X70 will be able to book and pay a deposit for their order online, thus making it incredibly convenient for those who don’t have the time to physically visit a PROTON 3S and 4S outlet. “We want to make it as easy as possible for Malaysians to book a Proton X70 so we think this is a step in that direction. To promote our new channel, we will run a promotion for three days from the date the function goes live, where those who place a booking for the Proton X70 will also receive special gifts,” said Abdul Rashid.
After months of building anticipation, the first-ever PROTON SUV – the Proton X70 – has finally had its public debut as PROTON Edar Sdn Bhd kicked-off its programme of exclusive customer previews in Petaling Jaya, from 19 – 23 September 2018. Customers, C-level executives from prominent corporations as well as potential corporate buyers were invited to see the interior and exterior design of the SUV, which is the first PROTON product to enter the rapidly growing market segment. Such a product is deserving of a luxury themed event, which is why the Company decided to present the X70 in a modern, sophisticated yet luxurious setting. (See more of the X70 here)
“Since bookings were opened on 8 September, the response from our customers has been overwhelming. The Proton X70 scales new heights for the Company with its modern and sophisticated design so we are organising previews to allow customers to get a closer look to understand the level of engineering and feel the premium materials we have used in this SUV. It goes without saying PROTON is very excited about our new model and we hope, after the preview, customers will feel the same way too,” said Abdul Rashid Musa, Chief Executive Officer, PROTON Edar.
An exciting design story…
As was the case with the media preview, attendees to the X70 preview are treated to a comprehensive presentation on the exterior and interior design elements of the first model to come from the collaboration between PROTON and Geely. Drawing inspiration from the feline form, the exterior is sculpted with explosive energetic lines that references the family of big cats, especially the Malayan Tiger, which is why it conveys a sense of explosive forward momentum. The link to the majestic animal is further strengthened by the headlamps, featuring daytime running lights (DRL) that create a distinctive pair of ‘eyes’, making the SUV recognisable in any driving environment.
Further Malaysian inspired touches can be found in the grille that features a shape inspired by a bow to deliver an identifiable presence that also captures a sense of agility, speed and lightness. Proudly displayed in the middle of the distinctive grille is a large PROTON badge, framed by three black horizontal bars. Closer inspection reveal the bars have distinctive repeating patterns called the ‘Infinite Weave’ that is inspired by Malaysian craftsmanship and our rich natural heritage.
The same Infinite Weave pattern is carried over to the interior and presented in strategic locations that don’t stand out but subtly remind buyers of the Malaysian heritage contained in the X70. Luxurious nappa leather seat covers, high tech user interface systems and metallic accents combine to create an inviting and modern space that stylistically, is soothing to the senses.
Customer opinions and first impressions…
During the preview, customers shared their experiences and opinions on the Proton X70. The general consensus is, this is the best Proton model yet with many impressed by the design and features for the estimated price range. Mr Darren Ho, General Manager of Hong Leong Bank Berhad said, “I think the car is simply amazing and impressive, from the whole design development as a Malaysian car and also a car that will represent Malaysia to the world, I think it’s really great. Great looking inside out and the features are impressive too.”
“The best of PROTON that I have seen. Well done to the team in PROTON. I think this is the best car that PROTON has ever produced so far with the best design so it is going to be a hit in the market,” said En. Marizan Nor Basiran, Chief Technical Officer of WZ Satu Berhad. “The car is very impressive and it’s one of the new models introduced by PROTON that can be sold globally,” said En. Makhzan Hussein, Assistant General Manager of Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad.
“Outstanding! To be honest, I have never been a big fan of PROTON but after this preview, the X70 is really an eye opener; the design, the safety and other features are really impressive,” said engineer, Shaun Lin Jern Ming Adding to this statement, Shaun estimated the price range to be around RM140,000 – RM170,000 though he hoped it would be lower than that.
Previews across Malaysia…
The exclusive customer preview sessions that kicked off on 19 September are the first in a series of events spanning seven Malaysian cities that will run until 4 November. The sessions began in the Central with events in Penang, Johor Bahru, Kuching, Kuantan, Ipoh and Kota Kinabalu to follow.
“We plan to reach nearly 6,000 potential buyers through the preview sessions and while that’s a small portion of the potential buyers we are targeting, it gives those who are considering the X70 a chance to view the SUV so that they can make a decision. Spaces are limited so anybody who wants to attend should visit the PROTON outlet closest to them and speak to the sales team there,” added Rashid.
With a RM1,000 booking fee come 8th September 2018, you may be one of the first few to get your hands on the all-new, first-ever Sport Utility Vehicle from our first national carmaker Proton called the X70,which was previewed in the metal to the media today.
At first glance the new X70 does indeed seem to be keeping with the times, boasting LED DRL (daytime running lights), clean and yet “energetic lines”, and a new ‘Ethereal Bow’ front grille design, which “captures a sense of agility, speed and lightness” via an ‘Infinite Weave’ that embraces unique elements Malaysia has to offer and infusing them into the design… wow, all that for a grille.
Over on the inside, occupants will be cocooned in Nappa Leather, brushed alloy inserts in the dashboard and a new “technologically advanced interface” a.k.a. a multi-media centre display.
About the name… X70 was chosen by Proton as it would be more acceptable in Asean and other international markets, rather than an actual ‘name’ per se. (I was hoping they’d name it ‘Bayu’ – Ed.) It also allows the possibility for bigger or smaller SUV’s from Proton in the future with little change to the name i.e. X40, X50, X90, etc.
Where to view it… The new X70 will be the star of 7 major events happening throughout the country, including Kuching and KK, from 19th September to 4th November. Stay tuned for more details coming soon! In the meantime, check out our previous coverage on the Proton SUV here.
Download the FULL press release and fact sheet here:
So we received these photos, and just in case you haven’t seen them, this is what could be the the new Proton SUV set to debut in October this year. What do you think?
Not too shabby eh? From what we’ve heard, the new Proton SUV will have “CR-V size and specs but a HR-V price”, which means its introductory level variant will be priced below RM100,000. We shall have to wait and see!
The PROTON 1-Tank Adventure for the Central Region ended successfully on 18 July 2018 with a total of 36 participants in 18 cars covering a total distance of 640km on just one tank of fuel. Participants including media, celebrities, key opinion leaders, and public drove either a PROTON Saga 1.3 CVT, Persona 1.6 CVT or Iriz 1.3 CVT from PROTON Centre of Excellence in Shah Alam to Ipoh and back to Setia Gemilang Auto, Shah Alam on just one tank of fuel without any specific driving restrictions.
The Journey across 640km
The journey began on a highway where participants drove at a speed between 80km/h to 100km/h before driving 60km/h to 80km/h on alternative roads with traffic, road works, lorries and road conditions that were similar to daily driving conditions.
Participants went on a free and easy drive via Kuala Selangor, Teluk Intan, Bukit Gantang R&R, Weil Hotel, Kellie’s Castle before arriving at Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS) for their Dynamic Driving Experience. They even enjoyed famous local cuisine such as Mee Udang Galah, Mee Rebus Mastan Ghani, Nasi Vanggey and durians along the way.
In order to capture real time fuel consumption, participants are encouraged to drive freely with the air-conditioning, without removing any safety items (i.e. the spare tyre).
Central Region End with Successful Results
As a result, all cars achieved 640km in just 1 tank and the results were verified by scrutineers from the Malaysia Speed Festival (MSF). The best achievements were from the Public category led by Saga 1.3 CVT at 3.57L/100km (average fuel consumption for Saga Group is 4.5L/100km), followed by Persona 1.6 CVT at 4.00L/100km (average fuel consumption for Persona Group is 5.09L/100km), and Iriz 1.3 CVT at 4.75L/100km (average fuel consumption for Iriz Group is 5.55L/100km).
The last activity before the finishing line was the Dynamic Driving Experience where participants got first-hand experience of the exhilarating ride and handling of PROTON vehicles as well as 5-Star ASEAN NCAP active safety features in the Persona and Iriz, such as the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control (TC) and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
The 3 cars featured in the event were:
Saga: Safe, Stable, Spacious
Proton Saga is spacious and it comes with Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control (TC) system, giving it an outstanding driving experience (compared to its competitors in the same category, the driving performance ensures great driving experience, stability at high speed cornering; leading to better safety) and value for money with low maintenance cost which is an important consideration for the consumers.
Persona：Power, Practicality, Proven Safety
Persona has internationally recognized ASEAN NCAP 5 star ratings with its outstanding safety which includes Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control (TC), 6 airbags and body structure made with HPF technology. It offers spacious interior with a 510L boot space, and practicality with keyless entry and reverse camera. Competitively priced in its category, the Persona is equipped with 1.6VVT engine that ensuress powerful performance for great driving experience.
Iriz presents a tough and sturdy characteristic with its body structure made with HPF as well as other advanced technology equipment including Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Hill-hold Assist that is standard across all variants. In terms of performance, Iriz is equipped with 1.3L and 1.6L VVT engine, which has proven outstanding drivability through the Sepang 1000km race. Additionally, Iriz offers design that cater to youths with its distinctive two-tone colour body kit and black roof design that catches people’s attention. For interior, the steering, upholstery and carpet mat with fine tailoring technology and striking colour combination accentuate its sportiness. Now, it is equipped with a new meter display and multi-touch infotainment display system as well as glossy finish for its gear and dashboard that uplift the fine design in the interior.
Registration has closed for the next round at the Southern region, but recruitment for the Northern region round is still open. For details, terms and conditions, please visit PROTON official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ProtonCarsOfficial
After a short period of inactivity for PROTON in exporting cars, the Malaysian automotive manufacturer is now back in action for the second half of 2018. Recently, PROTON resumed exporting cars to the Middle East, marking the first time the Company has done so since formalizing its partnership with Geely. A symbolic flag-off ceremony was held at Westports Malaysia’s berthing area to commemorate the occasion, with Proton cars lined up to be driven on board the Grand Diamond cargo vessel.
Demand remains strong for Proton products…
The port of arrival in the Middle East is Aqaba in Jordan and from there, the cars will be distributed to Iraq and other neighboring countries. The first shipment will consist of 453 Proton cars, which have a strong following in Middle Eastern markets. The enthusiasm for the cars is such that there are even active owners clubs in the region despite the slow-down in exports over the past few years.
“This ceremony marks a starting point for PROTON as we resume and ramp up shipments to the Middle East in the coming months. It’s also the first export shipment since the partnership with Geely commenced and we expect our export market to have a positive outlook in the future so be prepared for more such announcements from as early as August this year,” said Dato’ Radzaif Mohamed, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of PROTON.
Voicing the same sentiment Eddie Lee, Chief Executive Officer of Westports, said, “We are equally excited to partner PROTON in its efforts to export cars all over the world, particularly as its last major export to Egypt was back in 2015. We believe Westports’ partnership with our customers like PROTON together with shipping agents like Sunship will further strengthen both brands, and help ensure cars sent over are in pristine condition.”
PROTON quality improvement efforts bear results…
Dato’ Radzaif’s enthusiasm for PROTON to grow its export market are backed by improvements to its product quality. Ever since the Company implemented the Global Customer Product Audit (GCPA) system on its production processes, the number of demerit points registered has seen a threefold improvement. Based on a sliding scale where smaller scores equates to better quality, the current GCPA score for PROTON as at the end of June 2018 is 1763 demerit points, with a year-end target of 1500. This compares favorably with Geely and Volvo who also use GCPA and have current scores of 1200 and 850 points.
“PROTON has always strived to produce high-quality products for our domestic and export markets but the collaboration with Geely has introduced a new quality mindset along with a shared quality audit system that is also used by Volvo. Using it as a roadmap we have managed to lower our demerit points threefold as we aim to deliver ever better cars to our customers,” he added.
Expanding export activities with assistance from Geely…
Also present at the ceremony was Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON. “The Middle East markets hold high regard for products from Islamic countries like Malaysia. The demand for cars will grow as their economies develop and will help fuel the growth of our export business. The ASEAN market however will remain as the main priority for PROTON’s export business so we are excited about the opportunities available in the region.” he said.
PROTON is also leveraging on Geely’s extensive overseas network operations to increase the cost effectiveness of its own operations. “We are exploring all opportunities to grow export volumes for PROTON. Geely are making a big effort to support us in this initiatives and there is a lot of experience within the group so we hope to leverage on it to enable us to sell more cars outside of Malaysia,” added Dr. Li.
Image from FreeMalaysiaToday
Meanwhile in other news from the sales side, PROTON marked the end of the first half of 2018 by posting strong sales numbers for the month of June. Sales grew by 50% over the previous month as 6,173 Proton cars were sold to Malaysians eager to take advantage of zero rating for GST and the Duit Raya promotion offered by the Company.
Approximately 10% market share with Saga and Persona leading sales…
In line with the increase in sales, total market share also increased with PROTON garnering approximately a 10% share of Total Industry Volume (TIV) for the month compared to 9.5% previously.
As with previous months, the Saga and Persona continue to lead sales, with the former registering nearly 3,000 units sold. Buyers were attracted to the strengths of PROTON’s compact family sedan with its class leading affordability, spaciousness and handling as well as the ‘Best Saga deal in 10-years’ promotion offered in June where a brand new Saga could be bought for less than RM30,000. Improved product quality for all Proton cars was also a contributing factor as the implementation of the Global Customer Product Audit (GCPA) system has seen a big reduction in production line demerit points for all cars.
“PROTON had its best sales month for 2018 in June, proving that Malaysians continue to find the current range of Proton cars attractive thanks to the range of features that have been engineered into each model. The attractive promotional offers we had, zero-rated GST price and an overall improvement in the quality of our cars helped to boost sales, which we are hopeful of carrying over for the remainder of 2018,” said Abdul Rashid Musa, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON Edar.
Improving quality scores…
After obtaining a J.D. Power Customer Service Index (CSI) score of 755 points in 2017, PROTON embarked on a quality improvement initiative to perform better in 2018. The CSI score is measured by examining dealership performance in five areas (in order of importance): service quality (32%); service initiation (22%); vehicle pick-up (18%); service advisor (15%); and service facility (13%) and to improve its score, PROTON has initiated activities to boost scores in each area.
Initial scores using PROTON’s own stringent internal audit system are already showing an improvement in CSI scores. Via the GCPA system implementation, the quality of the Proton cars has improved 3 times in the past 8 months, measured by the VOLVO quality standards. Combined, both activities the CSI initiatives and the product audit exercise, these will see an improvement in the overall experience customers have with the brand.
Supporting Tabung Harapan Malaysia As announced previously, PROTON is contributing RM10 for each car sold from 1 June to 31 December 2018. Therefore, following the first month of the programme, a sum of RM61,730 has been appropriated for Tabung Harapan Malaysia. With sales on an upswing and the launch of their first SUV due to happen before the end of the year the Company is optimistic about the amount of funds growing much larger.
“PROTON is proud that we have managed to earmark over RM61,000 for Tabung Harapan Malaysia in just the first month of our contribution initiative. It is our intention to sell even more cars for the rest of the year so as to contribute as much as possible to the fund that will eventually benefit all Malaysians,” explained Rashid.
New SUV receives boost from Tun Dr Mahathir…
While the launch of PROTON’s first SUV is still some months away, the pre-publicity build up for the first product jointly developed with Geely recently received a boost. The 7th Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, recently met with the Chairman of Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, Li Shufu, and following their discussions the premier got behind the wheel of the first right hand drive (RHD) pre-production unit of the SUV.
An avid driver, Tun spent the ensuing weekend putting the test car through its paces and told the media the following week that it was very good and he was impressed by its quality. He also commented that the SUV would be a good product for the Malaysian automotive market and added that he wanted more Malaysian companies involved in the supply of automotive components. Having gained the stamp of approval from the Prime Minister, PROTON is intensifying its publicity efforts for the SUV in the lead up to its launch later in the year.
“We are happy that the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, approves of our efforts with Geely. This confirms that PROTON are on the right track and now that pre-production of the SUV has commenced we will soon begin our media and customer previews to build momentum ahead of the actual launch,” said Rashid.
The following was received in its entirety, unedited, from Proton recently, a message special from Abdul Rashid Musa, CEO of Proton Edar on the topic of…
WHAT HAPPENS TO CAR PRICE WHEN SST IS IMPLEMENTED?
According to the market trend in the past, the two months starting from Hari Raya will be a low season for the car market. Therefore, looking at the trend, the Malaysia car market is expected to revive in August.
From now to August 2018 is a good time to buy a car…
However, the recent declaration on the abolishment of the GST to 0% is foreseen to change the situation and we believe that now is the best time for consumers to purchase a new car as the implementation of SST will likely take effect in September. According to various sources, vehicle prices could go up following the return of SST, as mentioned by the President of Malaysia Automotive Association, Datuk Aishah Ahmad in her interview with the media in May, “Car prices will increase when 10% SST is in place.”
New cars provide more convenient loan application and better rates…
In the used car market, due to the stiff competition, sellers generally absorb the GST, therefore, the pricing won’t be affected by the zerorised GST. For consumers with a tight budget, the used car market may be more appealing as the cost comparison seems more reasonable and practical. However, the processes of buying a used car can take a little bit more cumbersome compared to the experience of buying a new car since loan approvals might be easier to obtain and interest rates are lower as a new car poses lower risks, hence, resulting in higher loan amount.
Most popular choice…
Under such circumstances, most car manufacturers come up with various promotional activities. Consumers with limited budget will have a hard time deciding which model to purchase. Take a 1.3cc car for example, consumers are spoilt for choice in the market, when making comparisons on the maintenance, space, safety and stability, and particularly the pricing.
We feel that Proton Saga is the clear winner in all those comparisons – it is spacious, equipped with ESC and TC for the premium model and offers great ride and handling, a key characteristic of a Proton car. The excellent ride and handling, provide a remarkable driving experience, making the drive on highways so stable, comfortable and swift, compared to its direct competitors. Its low maintenance, however, is the key factor for consumers in choosing the Proton Saga over its close competitors.
PROTON is currently offering SAGA from below RM30,000 for its nett selling price*. It is the lowest in its segment and is the best price offered in the last 10 years (well, 12 years, actually!).
Abdul Rashid Musa Chief Executive Officer, PROTON Edar
