Proton Holdings Archives

2019 Proton Persona Previewed! FULL Press Release From Proton

The 2019 Proton Persona was officially unveiled to the Malaysian media at PROTON’s Malaysia Design Centre in Shah Alam, COE, yesterday. The B-segment family sedan has been given an exterior redesign as well as an intelligent head unit identical to the one in the 2019 Iriz and based on the system used in the Proton X70. Both the Persona and Iriz are the first models in Proton’s current range to be updated following the collaboration with Geely and the official launch of both vehicles is currently planned to occur simultaneously by end-March 2019.

The 2019 Proton Persona

Flash booking promotion to start on 12 March…

PROTON will be holding a ‘flash promotion’ for the 2019 Persona. Interested buyers can place an online booking for only RM9.99, which begins on 11 March 2019 and ends at 11.59pm on 22 March 2019. “PROTON aims to make its cars accessible to as many potential buyers as possible. That is why the RM9.99 flash promotion is being offered for the 2019 Persona. The low commitment fee is just one part of the deal. The convenience of being able to place a booking online from virtually anywhere there is a data line is the second part of the equation, making the act of booking a car simple and fast,” said Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON (below, left).

Due to popular demand, the flash promotion offer for the Proton Iriz will also be extended to end on the same day as the promotion for the 2019 Persona. This means customers will be able to place a booking for either car online until 22 March. The first joint customer preview of the Persona and Iriz will take place this weekend 16 – 17 March at Proton Edar 3S centre in Plentong, Johor Bahru. Previously, customer events had been held at Proton Edar 3S centres at Chan Sow Lin and Damansara but they only featured the Iriz.

Restyled to feature family design elements…
Penned by a team led by the head of PROTON Design, Azlan Othman, the 2019 Persona benefits from expertise drawn from other design centres within the Geely group of companies. Working to a design brief with the model slogan Intelligence That Cares the Persona’s design embodies its three USPs of peerless connectivity, practical functionality and proven safety. It also uses styling elements to create a visual link with other Proton models.

The design updates are subtle but make the Persona stand out from its predecessor. At the front, it receives a new outer grille inspired by the “Ethereal Bow” that debuted on the Proton X70 and also features on the Iriz. The radiator incorporates the “Infinite Weave” pattern sculpted into its design and sits on top of a redesigned front bumper. Sleek new LED daytime running lamps (DRL) are housed over a honeycomb mesh backing while a new bumper lower garnish ties together the new design elements of the front bumper and frames the lower air intake more elegantly.

At the rear, the most noticeable changes are the PROTON name proudly spelled out on the trunk lid garnish and a new bumper lower garnish that enhances the rear visual identity. A slimmer spoiler adds a sporting touch while a new bolder flowing typeface for the Persona name badge matches the overall exterior styling theme. A new 15-inch aluminium wheel design and a shark fin antenna provide the final exterior styling touches.

The intelligent car for families…
Similar to its sister car the Iriz, the 2019 Proton Persona features an intelligent head unit that is equipped with an embedded eSIM card and offers apps for music streaming, weather updates, navigation and voice recognition. Access to the system is via a 7-inch full colour touchscreen with 16GB of internal memory. There is also Wi-Fi connectivity and full mirroring capabilities for Android smart phones via an app.

“The Proton X70 introduced the concept of intelligence to our range of cars and the 2019 Proton Persona and Iriz have now received similar features. Their intelligent head unit offers voice command, weather forecast, navigation and music streaming functions and they can all be accessed using the Hi Proton! catchphrase. These are first in class features for cars in the B-segment so we hope to build on the advantage we now have over our rivals,” added Dr Li Chunrong.

Proton Introduces Updated Persona 1.6 To The Media!

It’s here! From its beginnings in 2007, the effervescent Proton Persona has received a major facelift, but not only that, it’s also had a total of 303 improvements from the previous model. Most notably the “Infinite Weave” and “Ethereal Bow” design cues from the Proton X70 have now also been added to this Persona FL.

Available in 4 variants all utilising the same 1.6-litre engine, 3 of the 4 variants are mated to a CVT gearbox, however, one variant will be offered with a 5-speed manual transmission. Which of course begs the question, will this powertrain see its way into the Proton Iriz? Don’t forget during the media preview of the latter, it was noted that the “R” in Iriz was larger and painted red, clearly signifying for something a lot more sporty to come… You can read more about the FL Iriz in this link here.

As far as features are concerned, the 2019 Persona is loaded to the g(r)illes with kit, for example, in the top of the line model, GKUI or voice-command is now standard equipment, and across the range, both active and passive safety systems are very admirable, for example, all variants are equipped with ABS, Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control, and Brake Assist & EBD, not to mention Hill-Hold Assist and a Reverse Camera with all-round parking sensors. Passive safety wise, all variants get 6-Airbags. This has warranted the 2019 Persona to receive a full 5-Star Asean NCAP Safety Rating.

The Official 2019 Proton Persona Press Release will be in the next installment, so stay tuned!

2019 Proton Persona Photo Gallery…

Proton Previews 2019 Iriz FL To The Media, Now Comes With Voice Command Like The X70 Too! [+Videos]

Yup, voice commands in an introductory model, your eyes didn’t deceive you in that title. The Iriz is also the very first existing Proton model to be upgraded under the new partnership with Geely, and the Persona will follow suit soon. Targeted for a March 2019 launch, here’s the official media unveiling of the Iriz FL…

Very prominent changes to the Iriz styling are the use of the “Ethereal Bow” and “Infinite Weave” in the front facade; these design elements made their maiden appearance in the X70 of course, but this design was integrated into the Iriz by Proton’s Head of Design, Azlan Othman (below).

During his presentation to the media, Azlan explained the Iriz was penned to portray intelligence with a sporty look, hence the model slogan of Intelligence That Excites. He also mentioned the use of styling elements to create a visual link with other Proton models. Starting from the front, there are new slim headlights integrated with a prominent grille garnish. The shape of the chrome bar is inspired by the “Ethereal Bow” design while the radiator grille features the “Infinite Weave” pattern, topped by a trademark Proton logo. There is also a bold new front bumper that features a new lower radiator grille as well as sleek LED daytime running lamps (DRL) that add a sophisticated touch to the overall design.

At the rear, the PROTON name is now spelled out on the tailgate garnish in place of the logo previously used. Visually, it now looks wider, an impression reinforced by the new rear bumper with vertical garnish inserts and a new bumper stripe. Finishing touches consist of an Iriz nameplate in a distinctive new typeface, a shark fin antenna and new rotor blade design alloy wheels.

The 2019 Iriz is the first B-segment hatchback in Malaysia to feature an intelligent head unit that uses an embedded eSIM card and offers apps for music streaming, navigation and voice recognition. Access to the apps and other functions is via a 7-inch touchscreen featuring a full colour display and 16GB of internal memory. Similar to the system used on the Proton X70, the Iriz also has Wi-Fi connectivity so it can be used as a mobile hotspot or connect to Wi-Fi services that are within range. You can see more of this being demo’d in the video below…

Full mirroring capabilities with Android smart phones is also offered. “Following the introduction of the Proton X70, the 2019 Proton Iriz will be the second Proton model to receive an intelligent head unit offering functions such as voice command, navigation and music streaming. It will also use the same Hi Proton! catchphrase to access the system. You can therefore say that because of the Proton X70, the Proton Iriz was inspired to be intelligent,” said Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON.

Flash promotion to be held in run-up to official launch
PROTON will be holding a ‘flash promotion’ for the 2019 Iriz where interested buyers can make an online booking for only RM9.99. By doing so, PROTON will also reward them with free road tax for a period of two years as a sign of gratitude for booking the Iriz prior to its launch. The promotion starts at 10am on 1 March 2019 and ends at 11.59pm on 11 March 2019. Have a look at the Iriz on Proton’s test track below!

“By holding a flash promotion, we want to make the 2019 Iriz accessible to more potential buyers. Aside from the low commitment fee, we are also offering convenience as bookings can be placed online. This is however a limited time offer so we would encourage interested parties to book their units as soon as possible,” added Dr Li Chunrong.
The Company will also be holding customer previews at several of its Proton Edar outlets to give members of the public a chance to see the 2019 Iriz up close before its official launch. The first location will be at the Proton Edar 4S centre in Chan Sow Lin, where the preview will be held from 2 – 3 March.

Here are the variants to choose from:

Our final video showcases the Iriz’s handling capabilities, stay tuned to Piston.my for the official launch and price announcement coming soon!

Proton Iriz FL Media Preview Photo Gallery…

Official Photos Of The New Proton Persona Released!

The first official photos of the face lifted Proton Persona, PROTON’s B-segment family sedan, have been released. Set to be launched soon the Persona, together with its sister car the Proton Iriz, are the first models in the Company’s current range to be given an extensive exterior refresh since the commencement of the collaboration with Geely in 2017. The new exterior lines portray an image of intelligent connectivity coupled with elegant aesthetics with subtle updates that make the Persona stand out from its predecessor. It also carries PROTON’s new family design elements that will be present on all future models to visually link them together.

At the front, the Persona is the recipient of a new outer grille whose shape is inspired by the “Ethereal Bow” that debuted on the Proton X70. The radiator grille meanwhile incorporates the “Infinite Weave” pattern sculpted into its design and sits on top of a redesigned front bumper. Sleek new LED daytime running lamps (DRL) are housed over a honeycomb mesh backing while a new bumper lower garnish ties together the new design elements of the front bumper and frames the lower air intake more elegantly.

Move to the rear and the most noticeable change are the PROTON name proudly spelled out on the trunk lid garnish and the removal of the brand logo. A new bumper lower garnish enhances the rear visual identity while a slimmer spoiler adds an unexpected sporting touch. Finally, the Persona name badge receives a new bolder and more flowing typeface in keeping with the overall exterior styling theme. A new 15-inch aluminium wheel design and a shark fin antenna provide the final exterior styling touches.

Touted as an intelligent family car, the Proton Persona will be equipped with a colour touch screen for access to connectivity options as well as voice command functions. A development of the system used on the Proton X70 and developed by PROTON and ECARX, the Persona will be the first B-segment family sedan to offer such an advanced system to Malaysian car buyers shopping for a new car in its price range. More information on the infotainment system and the technical specifications of the Proton Persona will be released closer to the launch date.

Proton In 2018 – Part 21: Proton X70 SUV Officially Launched, Prices Announced! [+Videos]

FINALLY! After the longest “long lead-in” teaser in the history of motoring in Malaysia, the Proton X70 was officially launched last night by the father of Proton, Tun Dr. Mahathir himself! 35-years ago he did the same with the Saga, and it was fitting that he launched the latest model, Proton’s first SUV, the X70. Here’s the launch gambit video:

Possibly the biggest surprise was the price announcement that everyone had been waiting for, and as we’d expected, of the 4 variants launched, the introductory variant is priced BELOW RM100,000!

The price announcement was made by Dr. Li Chunrong, the CEO of Proton, along with the ‘special packages’ that will come with the new X70, here’s the video:

Following the launch, and once the thousand-plus attendees had mostly dissipated, Piston.my managed to grab some alone-time with the new Proton X70, and here’s what we thought:

For more info on the Proton X70 launch, check out the press release below the photo gallery!

FULL PRESS RELEASE:

PROTON X70 LAUNCHED

– Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad officially launches PROTON’s first SUV
– Special ownership packages and national price scheme announced

Kuala Lumpur, 12 December 2018 – PROTON officially launched the Proton X70 at a glittering ceremony officiated by Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC). Full details of the flagship SUV were also revealed at the event including the selling price, service, financing and warranty packages.

The first premium SUV by a Malaysian automotive brand
The Proton X70 is the first vehicle to be jointly developed by PROTON and its partner Geely, and is the first premium SUV by a Malaysian automotive brand. It also introduces PROTON to a new market segment and is the key catalyst for the total rejuvenation of the brand. When developing the Proton X70, both PROTON and Geely collaborated on multiple levels. From the cross deployment of staff in China and Malaysia, to testing in Malaysia’s hot and humid climate to the collaboration between local and international vendors, the goal was to ensure a product that is perfectly suited to the needs of Malaysian and ASEAN car buyers.

To prepare for its introduction, PROTON embarked on a comprehensive marketing plan to build an unprecedented level of excitement amongst car buyers via on-ground events, the launch of an online booking portal and giving the SUV its public debut at the 2018 Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS). These efforts began in September and were further strengthened by social media campaigns that included a naming contest and numerous teaser videos on Facebook and YouTube.

At the same time, significant investments to PROTON’s network were made for the arrival of the Proton X70. Training activities for sales and service staff and the launch of the inaugural PROTON After Sales Service Competition (PASSC) were part of efforts to ensure everyone had sufficient knowledge of the new vehicle. The Company also embarked on an ambitious network expansion plan by inviting new investors to start PROTON outlets and offering generous incentives for existing dealers to upgrade their facilities to 3S and 4S centres. To date 115 plans for such centres have been approved with 71 already launched thus far this year.

“The Proton X70 is the result of more than one year of hard work by PROTON and Geely engineers, designers and hundreds of other people working together to develop the first premium SUV by a Malaysian car manufacturer. PROTON is proud of our achievement and it is our belief Malaysian car buyers will be equally proud to own an SUV that will help to transform the Proton brand. With over 10,000 bookings, it already has a good start so we will work hard to deliver on our product and brand promise,” said Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer, PROTON.

“Deliveries of the Proton X70 will commence over the coming weeks as we want customers to get their cars as soon as possible. Some have had to wait for over six months, having given their name to dealers before bookings were even officially opened, so PROTON is thankful to them for their patience and incredible brand loyalty,” he added.

Special packages and one price for all Malaysians
To enhance the ownership experience of the Proton X70, special value added packages were announced at the launch event. Defined as Xtra packages, they affect four distinct areas. The Xtra Service Package offers free parts and labour for the first service as well as free labour for five scheduled service appointments within 100,000km or five years. Next, there is the Xtra Low Financing Package, offering low interest rates that start from 2.34% p.a. for qualified buyers.

PROTON will be the first national automotive brand to offer an unlimited mileage warranty as the Xtra Warranty Coverage Package will cover the Proton X70 for up to five years regardless of mileage. Finally, to ensure owners enjoy a premium connectivity experience the Xtra Data Package offers free internet data for five years (capped at 1GB per month).

“The Xtra packages offered will enhance the experience for owners by offering peace of mind, savings for servicing and financing as well as free data. PROTON will also create history by offering the Proton X70 at one price for one nation. This means East and West Malaysia car buyers will pay the same price for the same vehicle, making PROTON the first automotive brand to offer such a deal. It is our hope that by doing this, PROTON proves that a Malaysian product can be offered at the same price for all Malaysians regardless of where they live,” added Dr Li Chunrong.

Proton In 2018 – Part 19: Bookings For Upcoming New Proton X70 SUV Exceed 10,000!

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.

Proton In 2018: Part 9 – A Message From The CEO Of Proton Edar

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

Proton In 2018 – Part 6: The Best Saga Raya Deal Makes It Less Than RM30,000!

In conjunction with the festive season, PROTON is offering its customers the greatest Saga deal with the best price in 10 years. In addition, there are also great savings offered for other Proton models. With this, now everyone can enjoy a good deal – from those who like the ride and handling of Proton cars, be it the popular sedans to the spacious MPVs, it is definitely an ideal time to get a Proton, with the Best Saga Deal in 10 Years campaign.

Proton understands how a first car can define a person’s life, especially for those travelling back to their home towns to celebrate this joyous celebration with their loved ones. The simply affordable sedan can provide convenience and comfort of long distance travel for families across the country. For this reason, PROTON is making life easier for you. The Saga can be yours from below RM30,000. The popular and durable Saga will provide a smooth and effortless drive along the highways.

Buy Proton car, support Malaysia…

In light of recent developments in the country and the togetherness of its people, PROTON, in support of Tabung Harapan Malaysia has pledged RM10 from every Proton car purchase to be donated to the government fund. As a caring national corporate organisation, PROTON feels the need to come forward to provide additional assistance towards this worthy cause, for the country and the people of Malaysia. This initiative will take effect from 1 June 2018 to 31 December 2018.

Great savings for each Proton model…

Additionally, there will also be great savings for all other Proton models apart from the best Saga deal in relation to the Hari Raya promotion and to encourage sales of Proton cars in our effort to support the Tabung Harapan. There will be savings of up to RM4,000 for Iriz and Ertiga, and up to RM3,000 for Persona. The savings offered are on top of the zerorised GST, resulting in an offer almost double the GST reduction.

“It’s never been a better time than now to own a Proton, especially with the zero-rated GST in force. Customers could potentially save between 12% – 18%, depending on car model, if we consider additional savings from zerorised GST. Our cars are affordable, and has fantastic safety features. The Persona and Iriz have 5-star ASEAN NCAP, HPF body structure with 6 airbags, ESC and traction control features. Meanwhile, the Ertiga has the best fuel consumption in its class. It is extra versatile and provides passengers with extra comfort with its rear aircond vents, large third row seats and ample headroom which are comfortable for the long journey back to our home town this Hari Raya,” explained Abdul Rashid Musa, Vice President, Sales and Marketing of PROTON.

“We are confident consumers will derive great satisfaction when they drive a Proton, as our cars are known for its driveability, durability and great ride and handling. So don’t miss this fantastic offer,” added Rashid.

The below table shows the total amount of savings customers can expect to enjoy under the Duit Raya promotion.

Model & Duit Raya promotion valid from 1 June – 30 June 2018

Saga – RM 3500
Iriz – RM 4000
Persona – RM 3000
Ertiga – RM 4000

Free 20-point inspection nationwide and at selected PETRONAS Stations…

Aside from sales freebies, PROTON will also be offering a free 20-point inspection at all its outlets nationwide, from now until 15th June 2018. The stop-check and go will ensure a smooth journey and a joyous celebration without last minute hassle.
The 20-point inspection will cover areas like brake and clutch pedal operations, all switches, lighting and indicators inside instrument panel, safety belts, battery checks, wiper blades, engine oil, coolant and others.

For those last minute travellers who would like to get their cars for the 20-point check, especially those travelling on long journeys towards North, South and East Coast, they can also head on to selected PETRONAS Stations (Refer appendix – table 2 for details), where the PROTON service team will be there to perform the necessary quick checks.

Free gift for lubricant service…

In addition, customers who service their cars using Petronas Syntium SE 3000 and Syntium SE 800 engine oil at any PROTON outlet will be entitled for either an exclusive inverted umbrella or the Rolson screwdriver set respectively. This offer is valid until 15th June 2018 or while stocks last.

For more information, customers can contact PROTON Customer Care at 1800 888 398 or email customercare@proton.com. Customers can also visit www.proton.com or its official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ProtonCarsOfficial.

For added convenience, customers can download the official MyProton mobile app, available via Google Play and Apple App Store.

Proton In 2018 – Part 5: 109 3S & 4S Outlets Targeted By Oct 2018, And More Than RM15,000 Off For A Suprima S Now With 0% GST!

First national carmaker Proton hosted another round of dealers signing ceremony and this time a total of 12 existing, and 3 new dealers were present for the ceremony. The Dealers Network Upgrade and New Dealership Agreement signing ceremony was held at PROTON Centre of Excellence. Representing PROTON was Abdul Rashid Musa, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, who signed the agreement with the dealers.

Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON and senior management members of PROTON were present to grace the occasion. In less than five months, PROTON has achieved 72% of its 2018 intended target for its outlets nationwide to have 3S and 4S status. On a strong footing, PROTON is on track with its plan to attain 109 outlets of 3S and 4S stature by end of October 2018, and the Company is getting closer to the benchmark target earlier than expected.

“I am happy to share that within a period of less than five months, that is from January – 18 May this year, we managed to accomplish 79 outlets with 3S and 4S status, which is approximately 72% achievement against target set for the year. This is absolutely good news, a wonderful moment for PROTON, and with the upgrading taking place, we are confident that we are on steady grounds to provide world class excellence by delivering best sales and service experience for our customers,” said Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON.

Li also mentioned, “I also wish to thank new investors who joined us as Dealers of the PROTON family. While all of us were tirelessly making plans to drive PROTON forward, we are very encouraged by the fact that we have the support of new investors along the way, who are game to take on the challenge of being a PROTON dealer. This can only mean one thing – that we still have strong brand presence in the market and because of this, many came on board to sail on the PROTON journey into the future with us. Thank you for believing in us. Now we can all charge ahead and be the driving force of the brand”.

And on that note, in terms of sales, the recent announcement by the Malaysia government for zero-rated Goods & Services Tax (GST) to come into effect on 1 June 2018, car buyers will be enjoying a tax holiday with substantial savings on car prices. PROTON customers stand to gain even more as the national car maker strives to boost its value for money proposition.

Despite zero-rated GST only due for implementation on 1 June 2018, buyers of Proton cars can enjoy lower post GST pricing with immediate effect. Though the sticker price will remain the same until the date GST gets zero-rated, all customers will be offered the choice between an instant cash rebate for cars registered from 16 May to 31 May or service vouchers equivalent in value to the difference between the current and new price of the car, effective June.

Adding to the potential savings PROTON customers receive in May are exciting sales initiatives that make it even easier to own a Proton car. The current Kosong-kosong promotion (above) means buyers of the Proton Iriz (Executive and Premium variant), Proton Ertiga (all variants) and Proton Exora (all variants) who sign-up with Hong Leong Bank will receive 0% financing for the first year*. Customers who prefer to buy a Proton Saga or Proton Persona will receive free 3-months installment if they finance their new car via PROTON Commerce*.

As for fans of Proton Suprima S (above), they will enjoy whopping discounts of up to RM15,172 on top of the zero-rated GST pricing for these cars. The zero-rated GST offer extends also to servicing at all authorised PROTON service centres where a 6% discount (for labour and periodical maintenance parts only) is being offered to all owners who send in their cars for periodical maintenance.

For the FULL list of 0% GST Proton prices, download this:

NEWS RELEASE – THE BEST TIME TO BUY A PROTON

For full details of all offers, visit the nearest PROTON showroom or call its Customer Care hotline at 1-800-88-8398 or email customercare@proton.com.

*terms & conditions apply.

What’s PROTON Doing In 2018? [+Videos]

Can you believe it? We’re already in the third month of 2018, almost into the second quarter, and thus far, our first national carmaker has been keeping rather quiet insofar as launches are concerned, so what are they up to? Well, this for starters…

Apart from that, believe it or not, there’s really not much going to happen car-launch wise until the ‘big event’ in the fourth quarter of this year, when Proton unveils its new SUV based on the Geely Boyue. Sources have speculated that buyers will have all the space, performance and kit of a Honda CR-V, but at a HR-V price. That’s pretty good I’d say. Here’s a look at the Boyue in action (dialogue in Chinese):

But February 2018 apparently was a busy month for Proton as the company concentrated on activities aimed at having a successful year ahead. Initiatives for Sales, Marketing and Quality Improvement were put in place, while testing for its first above-mentioned SUV developed together with Geely continue. Here’s some of the local media testing it in China last year (dialogue in Bahasa Malaysia):

These initiatives will carry on in March and beyond, with specific models and areas targeted for improvement, namely:

Global Horizon…
On the international scene the Chairman of Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, Li Shufu, announced he had acquired a 9.69% stake in German company Daimler thus making him the single largest shareholder of Mercedes-Benz and Daimler trucks. PROTON could gain from it via its partnership with Geely who currently owns 49.9% of the total shares of Proton.

The ongoing quality journey…
Ever since the tie-up with Geely was announced, PROTON has undergone a quality improvement programme with its partner by using an assessment system that is based on Volvo’s global scoring criteria. In December 2017, an audit was performed by Geely and showed a remarkable threefold improvement, which is testament to the effectiveness of the ongoing work between the two companies.

Further improvements are gradually being introduced and with the next audit scheduled to take place in March 2018, PROTON is confident of achieving a further improvement of its audit score. These improvements are vital as preparations get underway for the launch of PROTON’s first SUV, currently scheduled for the end of 2018.

Iriz in focus…
Despite the advent of the new MyVi and the runaway success story it has become, for February 2018, PROTON achieved sales that were equivalent to a 9.6% share of the overall Malaysian automotive market. The majority of sales was accounted for by the Saga, Persona, Exora and in particular Iriz, which “continues to attract strong interest due to their design, technology and value for money proposition” (source: Proton). Here’s our video take on the Iriz Premium 1.6:

In March 2018, PROTON’s ‘My Style, My Drive’ campaign hits sales galleries nationwide and for this month, it focuses on the Proton Iriz. Customers are invited to rediscover the award-winning compact hatchback by taking a comprehensive test drive to appreciate the new features that were introduced in the updated model in 2017. You can read our full review with videos on it here.

At the same time, PROTON staff will also engage customers to offer advice on how to best use the various smart features of the car while select showrooms are equipped with a safety corner to demonstrate the safety aspects of PROTON’s 5-star ASEAN NCAP rated hatchback. Here’s my final say on the car…

This roadshow is still on-going so head over to your nearest Proton showroom to check it out.

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Piston.my

Proton Holdings

2019 Proton Persona Previewed! FULL Press Release From Proton

The 2019 Proton Persona

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Proton In 2018 – Part 19: Bookings For Upcoming New Proton X70 SUV Exceed 10,000!

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Proton In 2018 – Part 6: The Best Saga Raya Deal Makes It Less Than RM30,000!

Proton In 2018 – Part 5: 109 3S & 4S Outlets Targeted By Oct 2018, And More Than RM15,000 Off For A Suprima S Now With 0% GST!

What’s PROTON Doing In 2018? [+Videos]

2019 Proton Persona Previewed! FULL Press Release From Proton

Proton Introduces Updated Persona 1.6 To The Media!

Proton Previews 2019 Iriz FL To The Media, Now Comes With Voice Command Like The X70 Too! [+Videos]

Official Photos Of The New Proton Persona Released!

Proton In 2018 – Part 21: Proton X70 SUV Officially Launched, Prices Announced! [+Videos]

Proton In 2018 – Part 19: Bookings For Upcoming New Proton X70 SUV Exceed 10,000!

Proton In 2018: Part 9 – A Message From The CEO Of Proton Edar

Proton In 2018 – Part 6: The Best Saga Raya Deal Makes It Less Than RM30,000!

Proton In 2018 – Part 5: 109 3S & 4S Outlets Targeted By Oct 2018, And More Than RM15,000 Off For A Suprima S Now With 0% GST!

What’s PROTON Doing In 2018? [+Videos]

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