Latest news with #PRO-NET
The Sun
23-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Proton e.MAS 7 Continues Reign as Malaysia's Top-Selling EV
PROTON New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (PRO-NET), a subsidiary of Proton, has reaffirmed its dominance in Malaysia's electric vehicle sector with the continued success of the Proton 7. The all-electric SUV maintained its position as the best-selling EV in the country for the sixth month running, having recorded 4,003 cumulative deliveries in the first half of 2025. This performance accounts for a commanding 23.4% share of the national EV market. The consistent domestic uptake of the 7 has been complemented by a growing international footprint. PRO-NET confirmed that 250 units of the model have been exported to emerging markets, including its latest entry into Trinidad and Tobago. These developments point to the 7's broader appeal beyond Malaysia's borders, reinforcing its role as a viable global contender in the EV space. The model's sustained popularity has been attributed to Proton's steadfast pricing strategy across both 7 variants, underlining its long-term value for consumers. Instead of engaging in aggressive discounting tactics, the company has prioritised customer trust and satisfaction. In preparing the 7 for Malaysian roads, Proton undertook extensive development efforts. The car's engineering programme spanned more than 700,000 man-hours and over 100,000 kilometres of real-world testing. These efforts were critical in fine-tuning the EV for local conditions, from road surfaces to climate patterns. Proton's broader commitment to environmental goals was also evident, with the 7 playing a central role in aligning with Malaysia's target of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. PRO-NET's groundwork extended far beyond product development. The company launched a nationwide EV dealership network nearly a year before the 7's commercial debut. Each of the 35 dedicated outlets received an investment exceeding RM2 million, resulting in state-of-the-art facilities equipped with EV-specific tools, service bays, and DC charging stations. This expansive network has also generated over 700 jobs, contributing to both the local economy and technical workforce development. To support its retail partners, PRO-NET continues to offer a structured support system that includes dealership launch assistance, investment incentives, and performance-based recognition programmes. These measures are designed to ensure consistent service quality and a superior customer experience across the board. Efforts to bolster the EV ecosystem have also advanced significantly. PRO-NET's collaboration with various charging point operators has expanded the Live Integrated Charging Map to encompass more than 3,300 charging stations nationwide. This includes over 1,100 charging points installed at 390 high-rise residential developments, a move facilitated by an earlier Memorandum of Understanding signed with Gentari in 2022. Today, the network includes 10 major charging operators such as JomCharge, Shell Recharge, DC Handal, and Charge N Go, among others. Internally, PRO-NET has grown from a small startup team in 2022 to a fully-formed organisation with divisions dedicated to sales, marketing, product development, and EV infrastructure. This structural expansion has played a pivotal role in sustaining the momentum behind the 7, positioning PRO-NET at the forefront of Malaysia's transition to cleaner mobility. In a bid to encourage more Malaysians to adopt electric mobility, PRO-NET recently introduced the Power Exchange programme. The initiative allows customers to trade in any vehicle—regardless of brand or age—for an RM5,000 bonus towards the purchase of an 7. Vehicles submitted for trade-in will undergo inspection and require approval before being accepted into the programme. With a strong product, robust infrastructure, and expanding international reach, the Proton 7 has firmly established itself as a symbol of Malaysia's electric future—delivering not only innovation and performance but also a credible step toward achieving a more sustainable automotive landscape.
The Sun
27-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
PRO-NET Branding Chief honoured at Malaysian CMO awards 2024
PROTON NEW ENERGY TECHNOLOGY SDN BHD (PRO-NET) has earned national recognition as its Chief Branding Officer, Salawati Mohd Yusoff, was named a recipient of the Malaysian CMO Award 2024 by MARKETING Magazine Asia. The award honours marketing professionals who go beyond conventional branding to drive organisational growth, strategic transformation, and long-term impact. Salawati was acknowledged for her instrumental role in steering PRO-NET's branding strategy with a clear and consistent narrative that prioritises authentic engagement and innovation. She described the accolade as a reflection of the collective effort behind PRO-NET's success, emphasising that branding is fundamentally about forging meaningful connections with people rather than superficial symbols. Under her leadership, PRO-NET has transformed how Malaysians perceive the future of mobility through its two core electric vehicle (EV) brands–smart Malaysia and Proton The company's brand evolution has been marked by a consistent voice, customer-first approach, and a focus on trust-building through advanced technologies. smart Malaysia's Rapid Rise in Premium EV Market The smart brand has gained significant traction in the premium EV segment in Malaysia. The smart #1 SUV emerged as one of the top three best-selling electric SUVs priced above RM180,000. Meanwhile, the smart #3 received multiple awards, including Best Compact Premium EV at the 2024 Car of the Year (COTY) awards, Best Electric Luxury Compact All-Wheel Drive Crossover/SUV from the Star Carsifu Editor's Choice Awards, and two major recognitions from the Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii)–Car of the Year and Crossover of the Year for models priced below RM200,000. On an international level, PRO-NET was recognised by smart Automobile with the Best Overseas Pioneer Partner award. This milestone underscores the company's growing influence in Southeast Asia and its steadfast commitment to excellence in partnership, performance, and regional expansion. Proton 7 Leads Malaysia's EV Charge The Proton 7 has swiftly become a standout success in Malaysia's electric vehicle landscape. Officially launched on 16 December 2024 by the Prime Minister, the 7 has rapidly gained traction with over 1,000 units delivered within the first 75 days. As of today, over 2,700 units have reached customers nationwide. With a 26% share of Malaysia's EV market, the 7 has maintained its position as the country's top-selling electric vehicle for four consecutive months. The vehicle's strong market performance has positioned it as both a commercial success and a symbol of national progress towards sustainable mobility. PRO-NET's Continued Commitment to EV Advancement PRO-NET CEO Zhang Qiang attributed Salawati's award to her exceptional vision and branding leadership, stating that her work has been pivotal in shaping public perception and reception of the company's products. He noted that the award also reflects the collaborative nature of PRO-NET's mission to lead the electric vehicle transition in Malaysia. The recognition at the Malaysian CMO Awards 2024 further cements PRO-NET's standing as a key driver in the country's automotive transformation. With continued innovation and strategic branding, the company is poised to accelerate Malaysia's journey towards a more sustainable automotive future. The Malaysian CMO Award serves as a national platform that celebrates marketers who not only safeguard brand identity but actively contribute to the commercial and strategic growth of their organisations.
The Sun
15-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Shell Recharge, PRO-NET to widen EV charging network
KUALA LUMPUR: Shell Recharge and Proton New Energy Technology (PRO-NET), a subsidiary of national carmaker Proton Holdings Bhd, have collaborated to simplify EV charging for Malaysian drivers. Through this collaboration, Proton and smart EV drivers can now locate and pay for EV charging at Shell Recharge stations nationwide via the Proton and Hello smart apps. This takes an important step forward in delivering a smoother, integrated, and more convenient charging experience for EV drivers and supports the Malaysian government's vision of a unified and accessible EV ecosystem. 'At Shell, we believe convenience is key to accelerating EV adoption. We recognise the need to provide EV drivers with intuitive solutions that meet their charging needs, and that is exactly what we are delivering through this collaboration with PRO-NET,' Shell Malaysia general manager, mobility & convenience Seow Lee Ming said. 'By making our sites available on PRO-NET digital platforms, EV drivers now have more ways to locate, navigate, and pay for EV charging at Shell Recharge stations nationwide. 'We strive to work with like-minded partners such as PRO-NET, in exploring opportunities to invest in smart EV solutions, while offering greater value beyond a smoother charging experience. I welcome all Proton and smart EV drivers to experience the convenience of charging with Shell Recharge and PRO-NET.' Shell has been actively expanding its public charging footprint nationwide, including the recently launched high-performance charging (HPC) corridor, which connects the East Coast to the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. This latest integration with PRO-NET reflects Shell's broader strategy of building a more connected and inclusive EV charging network through strategic partner collaborations while contributing to national efforts to accelerate EV adoption. PRO-NET CEO Zhang Qiang said the company' mission goes beyond delivering electric vehicles. 'We are building the future of sustainable mobility. This collaboration with Shell Recharge is another important milestone in realising that vision. 'With over 2,500 charging points now accessible through our Integrated Live Charging Map, which can be accessed both in our vehicles and through the Proton and Hello smart apps, we are establishing an ecosystem that eliminates range anxiety. 'By working with forward-thinking partners like Shell, we are not just connecting charging networks but also connecting people to a smarter, more confident EV journey across Malaysia,' he said.
The Sun
03-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
PRO-NET expands Proton e.MAS dealer network to meet demands
PROTON NEW ENERGY TECHNOLOGY (PRO-NET) is accelerating its efforts to make sustainable mobility more accessible across the country. Responding to the rising demand for Proton vehicles, PRO-NET is expanding its dealership network, building on the 31 outlets already in operation and appointing an additional nine dealerships. This brings the total number of appointed dealers to 40, reflecting the strong nationwide interest and growing support for the brand. The expansion is intended not merely to increase the brand's presence, but to deepen trust and ensure that the Proton experience is accessible to more Malaysians. With the Proton 7 already attracting significant attention nationwide, PRO-NET is focused on encouraging greater confidence among consumers considering the switch from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric alternatives. The dealer network comprises dedicated sales and service centres, each purposefully designed to deliver a seamless customer experience. From the initial handover of the vehicle to ongoing support in aftersales care and EV charging assistance, PRO-NET aims to make EV ownership easy, reliable, and worry-free for Malaysian drivers. To further support this mission, PRO-NET is actively seeking passionate and forward-thinking business partners to join its network across key locations in Malaysia. Recruitment is currently underway for dealers in areas including Bangsar, Ampang, Kepong, Sungai Buloh, Subang, Sunway, Klang, and Cyberjaya in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur; Bayan Lepas in Penang; Sitiawan and Teluk Intan in Perak; Melaka City in Melaka; Kulai, Tebrau, Iskandar Puteri, and Skudai in Johor; and Sandakan and Tawau in Sabah. According to Zhang Qiang, Chief Executive Officer of PRO-NET, the expansion of the dealer network is part of a broader vision to create not just retail outlets but community hubs where Malaysians can gather, learn, and experience the future of mobility. He stated that PRO-NET welcomes passionate and forward-thinking partners who are eager to be part of this transformative journey. Joining the Proton dealership network represents more than a business opportunity; it signifies becoming part of a nationwide movement aimed at inspiring confidence, fostering change, and leading the electric vehicle revolution in Malaysia.
