02 Jun 05 15:32
Malaysian manufacturer Proton is running a three-day workshop for its global distributors in Norwich this week, aimed at promoting the Gen-2 small family car and also showcasing the other brands it owns: namely, British sports car manufacturer Lotus, as well as the Italian motorcycle companies MV Agusta, Husqvarna and Caqiva. Regarding car sales, Proton says it plans to double export figures by expanding its global network to sell its new generation of vehicles, and it has set a target of selling 100,000 cars a year globally by 2008. This is some leap from exports of just 17,000 cars in 2004. Proton CEO Tengku Tan Sri Mahaleel Tengku Ariff said yesterday: "What is important for our distributors and dealers to realize is that Proton today is not a singular brand but comprises five brands to provide a whole suite of offerings to the consumer, from Proton cars for the mass and niche markets, to Lotus sports cars, and Italian motorcycles."
Currently selling cars in 18 countries - with the UK, Australia and the Middle East accounting for most exports - Proton plans to sell in 36 countries by the end of the year, and will expand its rejuvenated, self-developed range with the launch of two more compact five-door hatchbacks later this year (the TRM city car and SRM supermini). It also promises "a mid-engined lightweight sports car" - developed, no doubt, by Lotus, though to be offered at Proton prices. We await more news of this with interest...
