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Proton in 2018

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

A car is really an engineering marvel. It has more than 35,000 components working together to ensure it starts everyday without fail. Not only that, it can also take you to places, whether the weather is good or bad and when needed, a car can also provide you protection from harm. Now if you drive a Proton, you will get something additional – extra protection and also the fun-to-drive factor that is a result of years of experience in exceptional Ride & Handling.

“Like any other machine, your Proton needs some TLC (tender, loving, care) too and over the years, PROTON has organised the free 20-point check before our customers Balik Kampung for the festive holidays. It is quite essential for the driver’s peace of mind and this also help ensure that your loved ones who are riding with you, are kept safe and comfortable in the long journey. When you know your Proton is in the best condition, your celebration becomes even better, and your Proton car can become part of your memorable journeys in life for the long run,” said Abdul Rashid Musa, Chief Executive Officer, PROTON Edar Sdn Bhd.

Below are reasons why you should visit one of PROTON’s service centre and go for the free 20-point check. The check points can be categorised into three major areas – Engine Room, Exterior and Interior, and this complimentary service is provided to you with our current lubricant promotion for the festive season.

Your Proton expert technician will look at these points:

Engine…

 Engine oil level
 Transmission fluid check
 Power steering hydraulic fluid
 Brake fluid level
 Coolant level
 Wind screen washer fluid
 Wiper blades
 Battery performance
 Front end alternator belt
 Radiator cap

Exterior…
They are round and black but they ensure you stay on the tarmac. PROTON’s technicians will help you check your:

 Tyre air pressure
 Tyre tread – PROTON recommends tread to be a minimum 1.6 mm thick
 Physical condition of the tyres – damaged tyres like a cut can be dangerous and you cannot see the back of your tyre!

Interior…
These are more intimate areas but you definitely need to have them in tip-top condition.

 Brake and clutch pedal free play
 Parking brake adjustment
 Switches, lighting and indicators
 Horn operation
 Safety belt harnesses and points
 Visual check on shock absorbers, brake and fuel pipes and lines

Now the checks do not take a lot of time and there are devices and tools required to check on the items, which means it is best to take your Proton to the service centres and let the experts do it for you!

On-site 20-point check…
For travellers heading to the north, south and east coast and would like to get their cars inspected, we also have our reps stationed at selected PETRONAS Stations, where the PROTON service team will be there to perform the necessary quick checks. Below are the details:

PETRONAS Stations, 12 – 13 June 2018 (10.00 am to 5.00pm):
– PETRONAS Jertih, Lot 134 Mukin Pelagat, Kawasan Seberang Jerteh, Terengganu.
– PETRONAS @ RZ Maju Teguh Ent. Lot PT 33762 HS(D) 3390/95
Bandar Laguna Merbuk 08000 Sungai Petani, Kedah
– PETRONAS @ EIDAMAN BERKAT, Lot PTD 53091 HS (D) 44103 & 53092 HS (D) 44109, Bandar Baru Air Hitam, 86000 Kluang, Johor

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 to 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 our 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.

Setia Gemilang Auto Sdn Bhd was officially launched as the first upgraded PROTON 4S dealer outlet, carrying Proton’s new refreshed look. The event was officiated by Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON, in the presence of Dato’ Radzaif Mohamed, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Abdul Rashid Musa, Vice President of Sales and Marketing and other senior management members of PROTON.

A new chapter begins…
The ‘new’ PROTON has begun for the dealer network, with the launch of the upgraded Setia Gemilang 4S outlet. This marks a new standard set to ensure sales and service platform are in tandem with the Company’s business model and objective to provide a new enhanced customer experience. “I am pleased that the upgrading exercise of the new 4S and 3S outlets are progressing well especially with excellent team effort displayed by our Dealers together with the team from PROTON. The new set up will stand to attract more people to the outlet, as consumers usually like to see and experience new things, new surroundings, new look and feel; and better ambience…

(cont’d) The interior and exterior are fitted with placement of different colours to display youthfulness and modernity, with significant spaces created for the kids’ corner, customer lounge and coffee area. Customers who enter the outlet will be able to enjoy the new facilities, comfortable waiting lounge while waiting to service their cars, with the convenience of free wifi to keep customers connected all the time. We care for our customers’ needs and we want to emphasise that customer satisfaction remains our key priority. Most importantly, we want to convey the message of a brand new PROTON moving forward,” said Dr Li.

New refreshed look…
With the launch of the first 4S upgraded centre, PROTON also showcased the new look with new elements. The new look incorporates new colours that represent global lifestyle, technology driven, youthful exuberance and caring attitude. The new look is to be splashed across the exterior and interior of the sales and service areas, for a fresher, dynamic and bolder PROTON.

On the exterior, brighter colours are incorporated to reflect a youthful image, whilst for the interior, the reception area is refreshed to create warmth for customers. There are also lifestyle wall graphics to give the interior a lively atmosphere. For more exclusivity, there are also dim yellow lights at the customer lounge area which provide customers with a cosy warm feeling when they walk into the area. For a wholesome effect, the sales delivery bay display contemporary graphic murals to create a chic and modern effect.

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.

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.

 

Zero rated immediately.

With immediate effect, all Proton cars sold and registered from 16 May to 31 May 2018 will include service vouchers equivalent in value to the difference between the current and new price of the car after GST is zero rated. Additionally, PROTON Customer Care is offering a 6% discount on periodical maintenance (labour and periodical maintenance parts only) to all owners who bring their car in for servicing at authorised service centres.

This service initiative will commence on 19 May to 31 May 2018 and customers servicing their cars from 16-18 May 2018, will be given a 6% discount at their next scheduled service (subject to showing the receipt from their previous service). Additionally, PROTON , is enhancing the deal by offering the option of choosing between the aforementioned service vouchers or a cash rebate of the same value.

Zero instalment. Zero interest
These offers are in addition to the current Kosong-kosong promotion where buyers of the Proton Iriz (Executive and Premium variant), Proton Ertiga (all variants) and Proton Exora (all variants) who sign up for 9-year loan tenures with Hong Leong Bank are eligible for 0% financing for the first year. Those who opt for the Proton Saga or Proton Persona instead and finance their purchase with a 7-year loan from PROTON Commerce are eligible to receive free 3-months instalment, subject to terms and conditions.

“PROTON is supportive of the new Malaysian government’s efforts to reduce the cost of living for the rakyat. Despite zero rated GST only coming into effect on 1 June, we have decided to reward our customers immediately as a token of gratitude for their support and in the spirit of the holy month of Ramadan,” said Abdul Rashid Musa, PROTON Vice President of Sales & Marketing.

The offer is applicable to all Proton cars bought and registered from 16 May to 31 May 2018 and supplements other sales promotions.
“PROTON announced an initiative to give Malaysian car buyers the benefit of paying zero rated GST prices before it comes into effect recently. Today, we are giving them options on how they would like to receive this benefit, either as service vouchers or a cash rebate. There is now no reason to wait until 1 June 2018 to buy a new Proton as we have delivered the savings ahead of time,” said Abdul Rashid Musa, PROTON Vice President of Sales & Marketing.

Our first national carmaker, Proton, announced another round of the Dealers Network Upgrade agreement at a signing ceremony recently, held at the Proton Centre of Excellence in Shah Alam. Following the earlier two batches which were held in December 2017 and January 2018, this time, a total of 10 dealers will be upgrading their outlets to 3S and 4S.

Present at the ceremony were, Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON and Yohan Mokhtar, Director of Special Project of PROTON, who signed the agreements on behalf of PROTON. Positive on the future, Proton is encouraged by the increasing number of dealers who are upgrading their outlets to 3S and 4S to serve their customers better and to ensure that customers get the best – top notch sales and services experience when they visit a Proton outlet.

“Month by month, we see more dealers joining to upgrade their outlets. Surely, this means that Proton is a brand worth investing – a promising brand. I am delighted that we have many entrepreneurs here who share the same view. I applaud their courage and farsightedness. These are businessmen who understand the need to invest more now, in order to enjoy much more in the future. Customers today are very different than before. Their needs have gone from expectation of a simple service when they walk into an outlet, to a different level all together. Now it becomes a lifestyle need. It is important for us to stay connected with the market requirements in order for us to be on top of our game, and to serve our customers professionally and with integrity,” said Dr. Li.

Li also added that the opportunities in PROTON are abundant for those interested to join the PROTON dealership. “I truly believe we are on a strong foundation to elevate PROTON to greater heights. There is never a better time than now to be part of the PROTON dealership. Already, we have a very good dealer incentive support scheme, which is one of the best in the industry. Our chance is here and now, and you should grab the opportunity to grow together with us. I am sure, the decision you make today is a stepping stone for better things to come. With your support, PROTON will progress and rise, and together we shall make it a success story”.

Recently, in an effort to further convince Proton Dealers just how serious Geely is about the partnership with Proton, a visit in early March was organised for them to the Geely Research Institute (GRI) in Hangzhou Bay, which opened their eyes to the possibilities awaiting in future thanks to the technology they are developing and the scope of research being done by Geely.

You can read about their observations at this link here: NEWS RELEASE – THE GEELY EFFECT _ FROM THE MOUTHS OF PROTON DEALERS

 

First national carmaker PROTON has launched an online poll, inviting the public to vote for the name of its first SUV. The online poll will run for one month on the official PROTON Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ProtonCarsOfficial) and is open to all Malaysians with no purchase conditions attached.

“We would like to share this significant milestone for PROTON with our fellow Malaysians as the new SUV (video below) also represents a symbol of Malaysian achievement. Therefore, we will reward the public for participating as well as select five lucky poll respondents as winners to receive some exciting prizes” said PROTON VP of Sales and Marketing, Abdul Rashid Musa.

RM100,000 worth of gift vouchers will be shared among participants as a token of appreciation while the five winners will be chosen based on the best reasons given for the name they have voted. Their prize package will consist of a ‘money-can’t-buy’ experience consisting of exclusive VIP invites to the launch as well as the honour of being among the first people to test drive and experience the technology and advanced features of the SUV at PROTON’s test track in Shah Alam.

Image from ZeroToHundred.com

There is also the option of proposing an alternative name for the SUV. Should the alternative name be picked, one lucky winner will be rewarded with a 4D/3N tour package to Hangzhou and Shanghai for two, inclusive of a visit to the headquarters of Geely.

PROTON’s first SUV is the first model to be jointly developed with Geely. It will be the first premium C-segment SUV produced by a Malaysian automotive brand and will be equipped with features usually found on more expensive rivals including a long list of passive, active and cognitive safety systems. It is also the first of many future products that will go on to revamp the brand values of PROTON in the next few years.

Image from FreeMalaysiaToday

The closing date for submitting the survey is 30th April 2018 at 11.59pm and winners will be announced closer to the launch date of the SUV, which is expected to be in the 4th quarter of 2018.

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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