Proton has just finalized their deal with smart Automobile company (smart) to sell their EVs in Malaysia. They will start selling smart EV’s by the end of 2023. This is big news for Proton and will also be the first time Proton will be selling EV’s in the country. Proton previously signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to sell EV’s in Malaysia, in which Proton will be the official importer, distributor, and dealer for smart vehicles in Malaysia and Thailand.
For those unaware, smart is a small car manufacturer by Mercedes-Benz. They are also co-owned by Geely and their smart #1 vehicle is built on Geely’s SEA (Sustainable Experience Architecture) platform for electric vehicles.
“Today marks a big step for Proton’s entry into the new energy vehicle market. The first phase of business with smart is focused on retailing but it provides us with valuable knowledge and experience on not only how to service and charge EVs but also how to transform the way we interact with our customers. The move into this market segment will also help drive Proton’s move towards being more environmentally friendly in all facets of our operations as we work to help Malaysia achieve its carbon neutrality target by 2050,” said Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer, Proton.
PRESS RELEASE
Proton today formalised its deal to sell and service vehicles from premium EV brand smart Automobile Company (smart) in Malaysia and Thailand by signing a General Distributorship Agreement. In a ceremony witnessed by media and officials from various government agencies, both sides put pen to paper to pave the way for the introduction of new energy vehicles by the national car maker. The first
smart model to be sold by PROTON during the first phase of the collaboration will be launched in early Q4 of 2023.
Proton to enter the new energy vehicle market While Proton’s collaboration with smart is primarily a retail operation, there are big picture developments to pave the way for its entry into the new energy vehicle market. For instance, the company announced its intention
to invest in a charging network by collaborating with a local charging provider as well as to provide and install domestic units for customers who intend to charge their vehicles at home.
Proton also announced its intention to model retail operations for smart on what the company does in other markets. Therefore, there will be a heavy emphasis on an integrated digital lifestyle and other elements that will marry customer preferences with a connected digital solution encompassing journey planning, charging availability and even purchase considerations.
Another facet the company is exploring is to use its entry into the market segment to attract young talents. With the rapid shift in job preference for new workers, Proton will use its long-term plans for sustainability and energy efficiency as well as increasing its ESG scores to appeal to the next generation of automotive industry workers.
