proton want to export Inspira

Proton wants to export Inspira

Proton Holdings Bhd may produce the newly launched Proton Inspira for export as early as next year.

"We are finalising our discussion with Mitsubishi Motor Corporation (MMC) on how we can export this model," Proton managing director Datuk Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir said at the launch of the Inspira here yesterday.
The car was unveiled by International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Mustapa Mohamed and Proton adviser Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
Syed Zainal said locally-made components for the Inspira, based on the Mitsubishi Lancer GT model, would also be exported.
"We received a commitment from MMC that parts made in Malaysia will also be purchased by MMC for export, particularly to Thailand and other parts of the world."
Syed Zainal said the export potential of components would begin next year.
The Inspira, meant for the local market, is a result of a strategic alliance with MMC. It is the first Proton car to be equipped with the Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control system, better known as Mivec technology.
Syed Zainal said Proton's plans to expand its product portfolio through its collaboration with the MMC, which included the supply or development of platform and power trains.
"There is potential but it's still under discussion," he said, when asked about the plans with the MMC.
The Inspira has about 26 per cent local content. This will be raised to 40 per cent within the next few months, and up to 60 per cent within a year, once the local vendors are fully prepped.
Proton has received 1,800 bookings since the soft launch on Oct 14. It is expecting monthly sales of 1,600 units.
The Inspira comes in two different engine capacities - the 1.8 litre and the 2.0 litre.
The Inspira 1.8 MT is sold at RM78,549, the 1.8 CVT at RM84,549 and the 2.0 CVT at RM91,549. All prices are exclude insurance.
Meanwhile, Mustapa said study on the consolidation of the local car industry was almost complete.
The government, he said, had yet to decide on the consolidation between Proton and Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua).
"The study is almost complete but it has not been formally presented to the government."