A new 7-speed dual clutch transmission could accompany the locally-assembled SUV, which will be sporting the new Proton emblem.
Exactly a year and a day after the Proton X70 was launched in Malaysia, the CKD model with increased torque (with 300 Nm from 285 Nm) will roll off a new extension of Proton’s Tanjung Malim plant.
The RM1.2 billion plant extension will also serve as a right-hand drive production hub to fuel Geely’s exports to a wider ASEAN region which will include Brunei and Indonesia.
With production commencing on the locally-assembled X70, Proton has also unofficially set off new developments in Malaysia’s automotive vendor ecosystem by connecting all vendors involved with supplying components for the SUV. Seven joint ventures between local and foreign vendors were formed as a result.
“By committing to produce the X70 and future models in Tanjung Malim, Proton has developed the vendor community. This is vital as vendors are the anchor for Malaysia’s automotive industry and are major contributors to the economy.
The introduction of new technologies will help develop industry competencies and going forward, the government is hopeful this will allow Malaysia to penetrate global markets and be a leader in the supply of automotive components, said Minister of International Trade and Industry, YB Datuk Darell Leiking.
