After signing the GDA with Smart on August 18, 2022, Proton has now established Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (PRO-NET), a new subsidiary to spearhead sales and distributorship for Smart vehicles and its own future new energy vehicle offerings.
Sales of the Smart electric vehicle by PRO-NET will commence in Q4 2023 with the Smart #1 leading the way. PRO-NET’s top priority is to deploy charging solutions for customers which includes home-based chargers and a public charging network.
Proton Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Li Chunrong said, “Our studies show consumer hesitancy to adopt new energy vehicles is tied to their concern about charging availability. PRO-NET intends to address the issue with a two-pronged approach combining the installation and maintenance of home-based chargers with a comprehensive public network to be built with partners specializing in the development and running of charging stations.”
“As a Proton subsidiary, PRO-NET has a responsibility to ensure our products and services are accessible to all Malaysians regardless of where they reside so in addition to fixed chargers, we are also considering mobile solutions to expand our reach.”
RELATED: Proton inks distributorship deal with Smart, #1 EV SUV to launch in Q4 2022
PRO-NET’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is Zhang Qiang, who has a long history in China’s automotive industry. He has been at Proton for the last five years, focusing on sales and network development. Chief Brand Officer is 25-year industry veteran, Salawati binti Mohd Yusoff. Chief Information Officer is a Proton newcomer with 20 years of experience in communications and IT, Sua Chek Hong.
The management team will report to a board of directors headed by Proton CEO, Dr. Li Chunrong. Supporting Dr. Li Chunrong is Deputy CEO, Roslan Abdullah, Chief Financial Officer, Wang Huaibing, and Vice president of Human Capital & Admin, Amran Mohd Tomin. Operations staff will consist of external hires from various industries.
RELATED: Proton to import and distribute Smart EVs in Malaysia and Thailand
Proton CEO, Dr. Li Chunrong adds, “The new energy vehicle industry is growing exponentially, and PRO-NET wants to be a major part of it both in Malaysia and abroad. As these new offerings will not be weighed down by previous model lines or even traditional service operations, it is an opportunity for Proton to reframe its customer experience and reposition itself as a mobility provider that can attract new and traditional buyers.”
“We are at the beginning of our new energy journey but with today’s official announcement regarding PRO-NET, our plans will gain momentum leading to more developments in the months and years ahead.”
