Proton’s upcoming three-row SUV enters into production; new stamping line unveiled

KUALA LUMPUR: Proton is set to introduce its third SUV (three-row) in 2023 to reinforce its standing as the most popular SUV brand in Malaysia. The upcoming vehicle will join the X50 and X70 and is popularly referred to as the X90; the automaker has just started its production at the Tanjung Malim plant.

Also read: Proton X90: What do we know so far

Proton also showcased the upcoming model at the official line-off ceremony and confirmed that it will utilise the hybrid technology, marking the brand’s debut in the New Energy Vehicle (NEV) space. It is a part of the company’s commitment to introduce more NEV models and take a lead in the category. Not to forget, the automaker had already signed a deal to distribute smart EVs in Malaysia and Thailand.

Alongside the public debut of the new model, Proton also unveiled its new stamping line that aims to boost localisation and reduce exposure to import disruptions. The construction of the new line was started in early April 2021 and completed by December. 

“The launch of our new stamping line in Tanjung Malim is a major addition to PROTON’s car production capabilities. As a national automotive brand, the increased use of locally sourced parts in our production activities is vital to the national automotive ecosystem and helps reduce the outflow of funds from the country.

“Aside from potentially reducing our use of imported parts by115,000 units per year, the stamping line also allows for greater flexibility when deciding our production mix every month and improves the speed by which we can locally produce new models,” said Roslan Abdullah, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, PROTON. 

It has five stamping machines with a single machine capable of exerting 2,500-tonnes of force and two machines each with a pressing force of 1,200-tonnes and 1,000-tonnes, respectively. Six robots are available at the stamping line that transfers parts between workstations and utilise IR 4.0 tech with real-time data and machine learning and help in improving the quality of parts produced. The new RM140 million stamping line is the largest in Malaysia and can produce 50 unique components.

“Today’s line-off ceremony marks the beginning of activities leading up to the official introduction of Proton’s latest model. Following the start of production, we will hold a media preview and customer familiarisation sessions before launching our new SUV, which will also mark be our first NEV product. This is an important step in our NEV journey which will gradually build emphasis on hybrid technology before we launch the first Proton EV,” added Roslan Abdullah.

The dignitaries who were present at the event included Perak MB Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, Proton chairman Datuk Seri Syed Faisal Albar, state VIPs, and other Proton executives.

Also read: Proton opens up a new Regional Parts Centre in East Malaysia