Proton and smart EV sales and service for Malaysia and Thailand
Proton and smart Automobile Company (smart) have signed a General Distributorship Agreement for Proton to sell and service smart cars in Malaysia and Thailand. The first model is to go on sale in Malaysia in early Q4 2023.
The deal paves the way for the introduction of new energy vehicles by the national car maker.
Proton’s partnership with smart is primarily retail. However, Proton 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 with a heavy emphasis on an integrated digital lifestyle. This will combine customer preferences with a connected digital solution including journey planning, charging availability and even purchase considerations.
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.
“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.
