PROTON Sets Foot in Thailand

- PROTON Enters Thailand with Gen.2, Savvy and Satria Neo
- New Face-lifted Gen.2 Unveiled in World Premier

SHAH ALAM, 28 November 2007 – PROTON added Thailand to its expanding list of export markets with the launch of it models today at the 24th Thailand International Motor Expo 2007 in Bangkok. The official ceremony was witnessed by the Malaysian Ambassador to Thailand, Dato' Sharaani Ibrahim.

2008 Proton Gen.2

PROTON made a strong statement of its commitment in Thailand by unveiling the fuel-efficient Savvy, the exhilarating-drive Neo and for the first time, the new face-lifted Gen.2 powered by the enhanced Campro CPS engine. The Savvy is priced from BHT399,000, whilst the Neo and the Gen.2 are priced from BHT499,000 and BHT549,000, respectively.

PROTON Chairman, Dato' Mohammed Azlan Hashim presented the keys to three customers who have the distinction of owning the first Proton cars in Thailand.

In line with this greater presence in ASEAN following launches in Singapore, Brunei and Indonesia, PROTON has appointed Phranakorn Auto Sales Co Ltd, which has 50 years experience in the Thai automobile market, as its sole distributor in Thailand.

2008 Proton Gen.2

"We are confident that the distribution of the PROTON brand in Thailand will be successful as Phranakorn Auto Sales is an established and reputable Thai automotive group. After these initial three models are launched, PROTON plans to quickly expand its product line-up in Thailand in the next year or so," said Dato' Azlan.

Thailand is a key automotive market for PROTON in ASEAN, as it has a total industry volume of about 800,000 units per annum. Of this volume, Thailand's passenger-car market recorded sales of about 190,000 units last year.

"Thailand also fits in well with PROTON's export optimisation plans, given its geographical proximity. Our presence today is just the beginning of a greater involvement in tandem with the potential of this market.

"We see an exciting future to improve our export sales volume in Thailand and are looking forward to creating a strong brand awareness and customer base here. With the right partner and the right cars at the right prices, we believe this is the right time to drive our expansion in Thailand," said Azlan.

In line with PROTON's aspirations, Phranakorn Auto plans to open at least 20 distribution outlets within the next 12 months.

About PROTON
PROTON, established in 1983, is Malaysia's largest manufacturer of automobiles. With operations in key market centers from UK and Western Europe to the Middle East, and across South-East Asia and Australasia, PROTON produces cars to suit a range of consumer demands and preferences. The offerings include versatile and reliable four-door family vehicles, two-door hatchbacks for the young-at-heart, luxurious and stylish executive sedans, as well as the world-renowned sports cars from Lotus.

PROTON's inception as a key driver of national development has seen the brand accelerate its learning curve through technology transfer with strategic partnerships and technical collaborations. PROTON cars are now steadily on track to achieving the mission for the future, gearing up to achieve the promise of a marquee which build cars with passion and soul; cars which are a delight to drive and a pleasure to own.

Source: Proton

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