Proton and Smart Automobile are now looking into the possibility of setting up a local assembly operation for Smart models in Malaysia. A feasibility study will be done at Proton’s Tanjung Malim plant very soon.
This new development is a direct result of the new memorandum of agreement (MoA) that both companies have just signed in China yesterday. If the plan goes through, this would increase Proton’s involvement in the Smart brand from just being a distributor in the ASEAN region to a manufacturing partner.
That being said, this has always been Proton’s intention according to its CEO, Dr Li Chunrong.
As an automotive manufacturer, Proton always intended to raise our involvement with smart beyond distribution for the ASEAN region as there are many efficiencies to take advantage of because both companies are members of the Geely Group.
After the launch of the Proton X90, our first NEV, we are excited by the opportunity to learn more about EVs from our collaboration with Smart. Going forwards, all our production activities will be centred at the Automotive High Tech Valley in Tanjung Malim, which will also help in our goal to turn Malaysia into a regional EV hub.
Grand aspirations aside, having a local Completely Knocked-Down (CKD) assembly would make sense in the long run for Proton since CKD operations allow manufacturers to obtain certain incentives and tax breaks from the government. After all, the tax incentives for the fully-imported Completely Build-Up (CBU) EVs will only last until the end of 2025.
Of course, CKD models usually have a significantly lower price tag than their CBU counterparts. Perhaps, can we expect a cheaper Smart #1 on the horizon? Ultimately, let’s not forget that the national automaker is currently planning to release a Proton-branded EV by 2025.
Speaking about Smart #1, you are now able to book the new EV in our market. While Smart Malaysia has yet to announce the exact pricing, the company has said that the Smart #1 is going to be available in Pro, Premium, and Brabus variants with a price tag of RM200,000 to RM250,000 on-the-road without insurance.
Aside from that the company is also offering the first 501 customers of Smart #1 free charging credits worth RM1,001. They can use the credit to pay for charging fees at around 70% of EV chargers nationwide directly from the Hello Smart app.
Bookings can also be done directly through the same app which involves a refundable fee of RM1,000. In case you are wondering what the Smart #1 is all about, check out our initial experience with the new EV right here.
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