Proton Archives

Proton In 2018: Part 12 – The One Tank Adventure Challenge!

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: Reinforced Safety, Responsive Driving, Refined Design

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

Proton In 2018: Part 11 – Ensuring Aftersales Improves & Geely Moves Up 76 Places in Global Fortune 500 [+Video]

The Zhejiang Geely Holding Group has announced that the company has moved up a whopping 76 places in the Global Fortune 500 ranking, after posting revenues in excess of US$41.1 billion in 2017.

This is the 7th year in the row that Geely has been listed in the prestigious Global Fortune 500, and for full details you can download this: ZGH 7 Years in Fortune 500 Press Release

In other news, the inaugural PROTON After Sales Service Competition 2018 will be held from 20 July to 19 August 2018. Hundreds of after sales personnel from PROTON dealers and branches will be put to the test to prove their skills, speed and accuracy in their areas of expertise. This is part of PROTON’s talent management initiative.

Designed as a platform for all after sales personnel around the country to showcase their ability and quality of work in handling customers’ cars, the competition offers an incentive trip and cash prizes worth RM50,000 to the winners. “The PROTON After Sales Service Competition is part of PROTON’s continuous effort to enhance the skills of our technicians to serve our customers better and also to reward those who show exceptional ability.

“Winners will be rewarded with an incentive trip to Shanghai, China, where they have the opportunity to visit Geely Headquarters and Geely Research Centre. This will be an eye opener for our local technicians to explore the full breadth of capabilities at Geely from design to development of the complete vehicle,” said Abdul Rashid Musa, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON Edar.

“Exceptional after sales service is the key to retain our existing customers as well as attracting new ones. When we provide good quality services to them, we are able to increase customer loyalty and benefit from them spreading the news via word-of-mouth. Technicians or mechanics play an important role in ensuring this to happen. Throughout the Competition, our technicians will compete against each other, helping them improve their skill level. Ultimately, this assists to build the quality of our after sales services and take it to a higher level to be on par with global standards,” he added.

The pre-qualifying round for PROTON After Sales Service Competition 2018 will be held in 5 regions starting from 20 July. Top three participants at the regional level will compete in the Final at COE, Subang Jaya on 13 – 15 September.

During the regional level competition, participants will be given an Engine Overhaul task where they are required to dismantle and assemble a Proton VVT engine within three hours. They will be judged based on their speed, accuracy and troubleshooting competencies throughout the process. “With improvement in sales and quality month by month, we are confident that PROTON is on the right track to grow. We recognise that good quality products allow us to sell more cars, but great service goes a long way to retain and grow our customer base so this is what PROTON is striving to achieve,” Rashid added further.

Proton In 2018: Part 10 – Exports Resume As Local Sales Go Up… [+Video]

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.

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.

https://www.facebook.com/piston.my/videos/1120678258105014/

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.

Photo Gallery…

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 8 – Why A Proton 20-Point Check Is A Must Before Your Long Journey Home!

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.

Proton In 2018 – Part 7: First Of Many New 4S Centres Officially Launched!

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.

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.

Proton In 2018 – Part 4: Caring For The People With 0% GST Right Away!

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.

Proton In 2018 – Part 3: Getting The Dealers Hyped For The Biggie!

In Early March this year, a group of 33 PROTON dealers got the opportunity to visit one of Geely’s dealer outlets in Shanghai. The dealer visit was established with the focus to enable PROTON dealers to have a real look and experience Geely’s dealer set up and how this experience could be helpful in setting up similar facade and feel here in Malaysia.

For Lum Hon Yoon, of Gagah Murni Sdn Bhd, “It is a good experience being here. We get to see closer how a Geely dealer outlet looks like. There is a good use of space. More importantly, it has different areas for customers to feel comfortable, there are coffee area, discussion area, children area and reading area as well. This means that this place is catered for the whole family. Parents do not have to worry so much as the kids will have a play area, or if the wife needs reading time, then she can occupy the reading area, hence anyone can come and be occupied with something and not be bored while waiting for the car to be serviced,” Lum explained.

These areas serve its purpose and many of the dealers liked the idea, and view it as a modern family needs. “People are always busy and the idea to send in a car for service for a few hours seem like a whole day. With built-in areas such as the discussion area, this could also serve as a meeting point where two or more people can come and have a small discussion. Moreover, the existence of a coffee area means that you do not have to run to the nearest Starbucks or Coffee Bean just to get your morning or afternoon coffee fix to get your day going,” observed Aw Chiew Soon, of Warna Bestari Sdn Bhd.

Razali Ahmad, of Erakars Sdn Bhd shared similar views. “The showroom area is more or less like the ones we currently have in PROTON outlets. What separates it is the spacious waiting area and the comfortable rest area that looks like your home living room, which is what I anticipate customers will like the most. The additional facilities becomes the pull factor in attracting customers to come service their cars. At least patrons can occupy their time in the most productive ways, so overall it is a plus factor”.
For some other dealers, what impressed them was the smart uniform, and their professional ways of greeting the PROTON entourage.

“As for me, the spaciousness of the waiting area is an appealing idea. More so, what impresses me is their uniform. The guys and girls all look so smart. This is also good for business. Customers who come in, could feel the ‘one ness’ in their approach. For us, it is all about attracting customers to showroom,” explained Azizulmu’min Mohd Hussein Malim, of Rohamas Corporation Sdn Bhd.

“Furthermore, when sales and service staff speak the same language, be it in terms of uniform, or approach, it confers a lot of confidence amongst the customers, hence selling a product becomes easier, aside from good product knowledge,” Azizulmu’min said.

Footnote from the Editor: So our dear Proton Dealers, are you convinced yet? Other carmakers have been offering this kind of customer service at their premises here for decades, thus it really isn’t asking too much for ALL Proton outlets to do the same now, is it? – Chris Wee.