Proton, Suzuki Malaysia to roll out joint product before end 2016

KUALA LUMPUR: Proton Holdings Bhd and Suzuki Malaysia Automobile Sdn Bhd plan to roll out their joint product before the end of 2016 under a strategic collaboration.

Proton said on Thursday Suzuki, which is strong for its technology and expertise in producing smaller engine segments, especially in the A and B segments categories would complement Proton’s long range product plan. 

“The development of this collaboration gives Proton the opportunity to tap into Suzuki’s strengths, which will result in the maximising of volume potentials, reduction in development lead time and expedite time-to-market. 

“This can be achieved through the technology sharing and the ability to maintain cost efficiency in collaboration with Suzuki,” Proton said.

It should be noted Suzuki has already stopped its production line in Malaysia and as part of the collaboration, Proton has access to Suzuki talents, models, platforms, power-train and other automotive technology.

Suzuki will then provide specific technical assistance for the products while it leverages on Proton’s vast local distribution and service network for its rebranded cars. 
 
Under the June 2015 agreement, 25 of its 3S and 4S Suzuki dealership outlets have been converted into Proton Edar outlets and bearing both Proton and Suzuki logos.

This move follows Suzuki’s move to halt selling its own brand models in Malaysia under a rationalisation plan. The outlets will continue to provide service and repairs for the 48,000 Suzuki customers and allow Suzuki dealers to also sell Proton cars.

Proton CEO Datuk Abdul Harith Abdullah said the collaboration was in line with the National Automotive Policy (NAP) which NAP promotes strong and renowned global automotive player like Suzuki, to be a collaboration partner to Proton. 

“The collaboration will provide Proton the opportunity to grow internationally, leveraging on Suzuki’s presence worldwide while Proton continuously develop and produce cars that meet international standards and requirements,” Harith  added.
 
Harith pointed out Suzuki’s track record in India where its partnership in India with Maruti grew from strength to strength. 

He cited that in 2014/15 alone, Suzuki-Maruti’s market share was 45%. 

“We are confident that Proton and Suzuki will foster similar or even stronger bond,” he added.

Suzuki Malaysia Automobile managing director Masashi Fukuda said the consolidation of Suzuki’s existing showrooms with Proton further strengthens the synergy between both brands ensuring the constant delivery of automotive after-sales services that its customers are accustomed to.
 
“The existing Suzuki car owners can be rest assured as their automotive needs such as the after sales services and warranty coverage with the use of genuine Suzuki parts will continue to be managed and covered. They can continue to send their cars to these outlets which are strategically located across Malaysia,” Fukuda added.