smart Malaysia Accelerates EV Ambitions with EON Berhad as Appointed Dealer

Subang Jaya, 25th May 2023 – Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (PRO-NET) has appointed Edaran Otomobil Nasional Berhad (EON), the automotive retail arm of DRB-HICOM, as an official dealer for smart Malaysia.

The addition of EON to the smart Malaysia stable adds further sheen to the list of reputable businesses appointed by PRO-NET, following a signing ceremony with Hap Seng Smart earlier this month, with five other dealership appointments to be announced soon.

Their inclusion into the smart family also enhances the EV brand’s visibility and awareness amongst Malaysian car buyers, in the build up towards the introduction of the award winning smart #1 is Q4 of 2023.

Strong partnership raises smart to greater heights

As one of the nation’s largest multi-brand dealerships representing several notable automotive brands including Proton, Audi, Mitsubishi and Volkswagen, EON's appointment reflects PRO- NET’s commitment to penetrate the vibrant EV market in Malaysia.

This partnership showcases another historic milestone for PROTON and its subsidiaries group, coming almost four decades after the company and EON pioneered the evolution of Malaysia’s automotive industry with the latter appointed as the first and exclusive dealer for Proton cars.

“We are very excited to be partnering with a well-established and trusted brand in the automotive industry. PRO-NET believes EON’s vast knowledge and experience coupled with DRB-HICOM’s extensive customer reach will create an ideal synergy that will propel smart

Malaysia’s vision to great heights, and we will continue to work with outstanding business partners in the industry to introduce premium brand experiences, products, and services,” said Zhang Qiang, CEO of PRO-NET.

“EON is committed to contribute towards the success of this new partnership. We are led by a dynamic team with vast experience which gives us the advantage to create synergy with smart Malaysia to meet the demand for the smart #1 and yield a significant impact on the local market,’’ said Akkbar Danial, Chief Executive Officer and Head of Automotive Distribution for DRB-HICOM.

“We have chosen to start our pure EV journey from our iconic building along the Glenmarie automotive corridor to serve customers from the region”, added Akkbar Danial.

PRO-NET set to become a game-changer in the premium EV space

PRO-NET believes automotive excellence is more than about creating the best vehicles. It also means providing a seamless and comprehensive retail customer journey and experience.

The appointment of its new dealerships is part of smart Malaysia’s strategy to make its new- premium, intelligent, and all-electric auto brand to be the ideal urban companion to Malaysian EV buyers. smart is therefore building an ecosystem that enables e-mobility in its entirety to ensure delivery of outstanding service towards its customers.

A part of this strategy is the smart app, enabling customers to embark on a digital journey and enjoy online services – from getting product information to making orders and payments conveniently.