Proton Eyes Return to Europe with Right-Hand Drive Focus
Published: August 9, 2024, 3:34 PM
Proton, a Malaysian car brand, is poised to make a comeback in Europe, according to a report by Autocar. Initially focusing on right-hand drive (RHD) markets, the company plans to expand to left-hand drive (LHD) markets in the future.
Proton previously entered the British market in 1989 due to its popularity for RHD cars in Malaysia. After a decade-long hiatus, the brand is now returning with a renewed focus.
The company also plans to explore new markets where it has never been active before. However, this will require adapting its cars to LHD markets.
Fortunately, Proton can leverage the existing platform of several current models, which are essentially rebadged Geely cars. Many of these models already come with LHD configurations, such as the Proton X50 (Geely Binyue). This simplifies the transition for Proton.
The question remains whether these models will resonate with European consumers. All three models currently available only have petrol engines, with mild hybrid technology in some cases. Whether this will be enough to capture the attention of European buyers as a budget brand remains to be seen.