Catalog / Proton
Proton, short for Perusahaan Otomobil Nasional, is Malaysia's national car company and a symbol of the country's industrial ambition. Founded in 1983 under the initiative of then-Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, Proton aimed to spearhead Malaysia's industrialization and create a national automotive industry.
The company's journey began with the launch of its first model, the Proton Saga, in 1985. Based on technology from Mitsubishi Motors, the Saga quickly became popular in Malaysia and marked the beginning of a new era in the country's automotive sector. Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, Proton expanded its range, introducing models like the Wira, Perdana, and Waja, gradually reducing its dependence on Mitsubishi technology.
A significant milestone in Proton's history was the acquisition of British sports car manufacturer Lotus in 1996. This move not only gave Proton access to advanced engineering expertise but also added a prestigious brand to its portfolio. The influence of Lotus engineering became evident in later Proton models, enhancing their handling and performance characteristics.
In the early 2000s, Proton faced increasing competition both domestically and internationally. The company responded by developing its first indigenously designed model, the Gen-2, launched in 2004. This was followed by other in-house designs like the Savvy and Persona, showcasing Proton's growing capabilities in automotive design and engineering.
Proton's expansion into international markets has been a key part of its strategy. The company has exported vehicles to various countries in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and even the UK. However, its presence in Europe has been limited, with varying degrees of success in different markets.
In recent years, Proton has undergone significant changes. In 2017, Chinese automotive giant Geely acquired a 49.9% stake in Proton, bringing in fresh capital and technological know-how. This partnership has led to the introduction of new models based on Geely platforms, such as the X70 SUV, which has been well-received in the Malaysian market.
Today, Proton continues to be a major player in the Malaysian automotive industry and is working towards strengthening its position in international markets. The company's range now includes a mix of sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs, catering to various market segments. With its combination of Malaysian heritage and Chinese backing, Proton is poised for a new chapter in its history, aiming to become a significant player in the global automotive industry.
The cost of Proton cars varies significantly depending on the model, specifications, and the specific market. In Europe, where Proton has had a limited presence, prices can range from approximately €10,000 to €25,000 for new models.
Entry-level models like the Proton Saga, if available, would typically start around €10,000 to €12,000. Mid-range models such as the Persona or Iriz might be priced between €14,000 and €18,000. The more premium offerings like the X70 SUV could reach up to €25,000 or more for top-spec versions.
It's important to note that Proton's presence in Europe has been limited and inconsistent, so actual availability and pricing can vary greatly. In some European countries, Proton cars might only be available through specialized importers, which could affect pricing due to import costs and taxes.
Factors affecting the price include the model's size, engine capacity, level of equipment, and whether it's based on newer Geely-derived platforms or older Proton designs. Generally, Proton positions itself as a value-for-money brand, offering competitive prices compared to more established European and Japanese brands.
The most affordable Proton model, if available in the European market, would likely be the Proton Saga. In its home market of Malaysia, the Saga is positioned as an entry-level sedan, and its European pricing (if offered) would reflect this positioning.
The base price for the cheapest Proton model in Europe could start around €10,000 to €12,000. However, the final price can vary based on several factors:
It's important to note that availability and exact pricing can vary significantly across different European countries due to import costs, taxes, and local market conditions.
The most expensive Proton model available in Europe would likely be the top-spec version of their flagship SUV, the Proton X70. Given Proton's positioning as a value brand, even their most premium offering would be priced competitively compared to similar-sized SUVs from more established brands.
The price for a fully-loaded Proton X70 in Europe could reach around €25,000 to €30,000. However, the final price can vary significantly based on several factors:
Keep in mind that Proton's presence in Europe is limited, and prices can vary significantly between countries due to import costs, taxes, and local market conditions. In some cases, these top-spec models might only be available through special orders or imports, which could further affect the final price.
