Team Proton R3 (R3), the motorsport and performance division of PROTON, delivered a commendable performance in the Malaysian Touring Car (MTC) class at the 2024 Sepang 1000KM (S1K). Overcoming significant challenges, the team secured fifth place with car #82, piloted by Ariff Azmi and Alister Yoong. The race marked the competitive debut of the Proton S70 R3, PROTON’s first new C-segment sedan in 12 years.
The 2024 S1K proved eventful for R3, with car #81 retiring early due to an accident and car #82 losing over 40 minutes in the pits because of a technical issue. Despite these setbacks, the resilience of the team and drivers shone through as car #82 battled back through the field, earning widespread respect from competitors.
Launched on November 28, 2023, the Proton S70 quickly established itself as a leading contender in its class, outperforming more established models from rival brands. Inspired by its commercial success, R3 decided to bring the S70 to the racetrack, allocating resources to ensure two units were ready for competition.
The team and its driver pairings, Syafiq Ali and Fahrizal Hasan in car #81, alongside Azmi and Yoong in car #82, embarked on intensive testing at the Petronas Sepang International Circuit. With each session, incremental improvements in speed and performance were achieved. Though R3 lacked the speed advantage of previous years, the S70 R3 demonstrated its competitiveness from the first practice session.
“Team Proton R3, its drivers, and the Proton S70 R3 have added a new chapter to PROTON’s racing legacy with a strong showing at the 2024 S1K. Competing with a brand-new car against teams with years of experience was always going to be a challenge,” said Roslan Abdullah, Chief Executive Officer of Proton Edar. “While an accident and technical issues impacted our final result, we gathered valuable data that sets a solid foundation for the 2025 season.”
The next appearance for the Proton S70 R3 is being finalized, but fans can catch car #82 in its post-race condition at the PROTON booth during the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS) 2024. The event will also feature appearances by the drivers, with details to be announced soon.
Despite the challenges, R3’s 2024 S1K outing showcased the potential of the Proton S70 R3, signaling a bright future for PROTON’s motorsport ambitions.
