Proton CEO, Dr Li, warns about the influx of 15 new Chinese car brands and 35 models entering the Malaysian market in 2024. While acknowledging the benefits of increased choice for consumers, he raises concerns about the long-term sustainability of these brands and the potential for 'orphaned' vehicles if they exit the market. He highlights the low number of fully locally assembled (CKD) vehicles and emphasizes the need for localization for brands to thrive in Malaysia.
Proton CEO on China OEM influx in 2024 – 15 brands, 35 new models in Malaysia , but only one proper CKD , I’ve never seen so many new brands coming into this mature market. At least 15 new brands and 35 models came into Malaysia , and a majority of them are Proton ’s competitors.”“For customers, this is good because you get more choices. That is 100% correct, but in the long run, your car may be orphaned ,” he said.It showed that 77% of the 35 new models are CBU, 20% SKD and only 3% CKD .
“ in Malaysia will have to do localisation , because I don’t believe the Malaysian government will allow you to only do SKD ,” Dr Li said.‘s volume as an example of one that could support a full CKD vendor ecosystem. The Jaecoo J7 is made in His point is, while it’s all well and good to have more brands and models coming into Malaysia, it may also have detrimental effects in the long run if the market doesn’t get proportionally bigger.Failing that – and with more competition, each model’s chances will only become lower – both vendors and end consumers risk being left out in the cold, the former with unprofitable low orders, the latter with the possibility of the brand exiting the market completely.
So it comes as no surprised that big boss Geely need to come in personally to fend off the influx of rival China brands. Also X70/X50 is outdated already and need to be replaced with the latest model Boyue Cool and Binyue Cool. Many here are saying all are using the new 4 cylinder engine too. Don’t be like UMW where they brought in the new Camry without the Dynamic Force Engine.He mentioned all the things that actually consumer already know, but still, some will take the risk and buy a new brand, why? Because a lot of people actually have bad ownership experience with Proton.
Proton China Brands Malaysia CKD Competition
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