Proton is accelerating its transformation into a high-tech automotive leader by strengthening local production capabilities through a series of landmark joint ventures and technical agreements. The latest initiative, involving six new partnerships, underscores the national automaker’s strategic commitment to enhancing Malaysia’s position in the global automotive value chain—particularly as it prepares to introduce several new models across both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicle (EV) segments.

Four new joint ventures and two technical agreements have been formalised between Proton’s local vendors and established component manufacturers from China, including those already serving Proton’s global partner, Geely. The aim: to localise the supply of critical components such as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), braking systems, lighting, HVAC, and interior trims.

This move not only strengthens Proton’s production cost-efficiency and technology adoption but also enhances the competitiveness of Malaysia’s automotive vendor ecosystem at both the regional and global levels.

Key among these collaborations is a joint venture between Delloyd Technology Berhad and Imotion Automotive Technology (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., a leading Chinese ADAS supplier to brands like Geely, ZEEKR, and Volvo. The partnership is set to fast-track the integration of advanced safety and driving assistance features into upcoming Proton models, including the AMA01.

For braking systems, PEPS JV (M) Sdn Bhd and Liuzhou Sanly Autoparts Co. Ltd. are joining forces to combine local production with modular assembly expertise. Their work will support future vehicles such as the AMA01 and X-Series, delivering performance, cost efficiency, and advanced technology.

In the lighting segment, Jiangsu Dekai Auto Parts Co. Ltd. has teamed up with JHM Consolidation Berhad to upgrade from being a replacement equipment manufacturer (REM) to an original equipment manufacturer (OEM). Together, they will develop and assemble advanced headlamps that meet the evolving demands of modern vehicle design and safety.

HVAC system localisation will be led by Trillion Speed (M) Sdn Bhd and Shanghai Yinlun Heat Exchange Systems Co. Ltd. Their collaboration focuses on knowledge transfer, innovation, and job creation, with technologies set to be implemented in upcoming models launched this year.

Complementing the joint ventures are two significant technical agreements that aim to deepen Malaysia’s R&D capacity and upskill local suppliers.

SHJ Interia Sdn Bhd signed a technical agreement with Changchun Fawsn Automotive Trim Co. Ltd. to introduce new interior manufacturing technologies—particularly for headliners. The agreement also includes establishing SHJ’s own R&D facility and exploring further investment opportunities in Malaysia.

Meanwhile, Xenso Electronics Sdn Bhd and Freetech Intelligent Systems Co. Ltd. will co-develop sophisticated ADAS features, including high-accuracy blind spot monitoring and lane change assist systems, crucial for next-generation vehicle safety.

“These partnerships reflect our long-term commitment to manufacturing vehicles in Malaysia while turning the country into an automotive hub,” said Wang Huaibing, Proton’s Chief Procurement Officer. “By localising high-tech components, we gain cost advantages while enhancing the capabilities of our vendors and R&D teams.”

The strategic localisation of components supports Malaysia’s broader goal of becoming a key player in the automotive industry through the Automotive High Tech Valley (AHTV) initiative, which is being spearheaded by Proton’s shareholders.

Through these proactive steps, Proton is not only future-proofing its supply chain but also playing a pivotal role in the evolution of Malaysia’s automotive sector—steering the nation confidently into the high-tech mobility era.