At the 2024 Beijing Automobile Show, Proton’s technology partner and stakeholder, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group (Geely), unveiled a wide range of cutting-edge automotive technologies. Highlighting their commitment to innovation, Geely introduced the high-tech flagship SUV concept, the Galaxy Starship, which underscored the company’s forward-looking approach. Malaysian media were invited to the event, providing Prton a valuable opportunity to explore and potentially integrate Geely’s futuristic advancements into its own offerings.
Geely’s showcase was in line with the global shift towards New Energy Vehicles, featuring significant developments in electric and hybrid powertrains. The introduction of advanced platforms like the Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) and Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) promises to shape the future of automotive design and engineering. The Galaxy Starship, built on Geely’s Electric Architecture, combines multiple powertrain technologies and enhances user experience with AI capabilities, supported by FlymeAuto from Meizu. Its striking gullwing doors open to a futuristic interior with multi-functional seating, hinting at the future direction of vehicle interiors.
Motor shows like this are crucial for gathering public feedback and demonstrating design trends. The technologies presented could significantly influence Proton’s product strategy, incorporating advanced features and enhancing performance in upcoming models.
Additionally, the event featured the rugged off-road SUV, the smart #5, the third model based on the SEA platform from smart—a collaboration between Geely and the Daimler Group. With the smart #3 set to arrive in Malaysia in 2024, the variety of offerings from this partnership is expected to grow.
Beyond the motor show, the Malaysian media experienced test drives of various Geely models and toured Geely’s state-of-the-art facilities, including the Geely Research Institute and the Geely Powertrain Research and Development Centre in Hangzhou Bay. Test drives at the Beijing Goldenport Motor Park allowed the media to experience Geely’s latest EV models and technologies like the Thor powertrain first-hand, demonstrating their potential application in future Proton electric vehicles.
Dr. Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of Proton, emphasized the importance of the event: “Although there were no models currently being developed jointly by Geely and Proton on display, this was a vital opportunity to showcase technologies that may be adapted in the future. Malaysians can look forward to seeing more of Geely’s global platforms and intelligent new energy architecture in upcoming Proton models, heralding a new era of AI-driven automotive innovation in Malaysia.”
