since 1976
since 1976
PROTON’s technology partner and stakeholder, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group (Geely), showcased a vast array of innovative technologies at the recent 2024 Beijing Automobile Show. Among these were the high-tech flagship SUV concept, Galaxy Starship, demonstrating Geely's commitment to advancing automotive technology. Together with selected Malaysian media who were brought to the event, it marked a significant opportunity for PROTON to leverage on Geely's futuristic technologies and offer a peek into future technologies that may be adopted.
Befitting the global move towards New Energy Vehicles, Geely's display at the show also included showcasing groundbreaking developments in electric and hybrid powertrains, as well as the introduction of advanced architectures like the Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) and Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) for future models. The Galaxy Starship is based on Geely Electric Architecture and integrates multiple powertrain technologies and enriches the user experience with AI, supported by FlymeAuto from Meizu. Its massive gullwing doors also open to an outlandish interior with multi-functional seating, showcasing potential future designs for vehicle interiors.
While motor shows are designed to gain public opinion and showcase design directions, these technologies could be incorporated into PROTON's product strategy to incorporate cutting-edge features and improve performance across its future models.
The media also got an opportunity to take a closer look at the third SEA-based model from smart, the rugged off-road SUV smart #5. With the impending arrival of the smart #3 in Malaysia in 2024, the range of offerings from the company that is a collaboration between Geely, and the Daimler Group is set to increase in the near future.
Aside from attending the Beijing Motor Show, test drives of various Geely Group models and tours of the company’s cutting-edge facilities at the Geely Research Institute (GRI), Geely Powertrain Research and Development Center in Hangzhou Bay were also arranged. The test drives meanwhile were held at the Beijing Goldenport Motor Park where the media experienced the latest EV models under Geely Group. These experiences highlighted the practical application of technologies such as the Thor power train and gave the media a firsthand experience of technologies that could potentially find its way into future PROTON EV vehicles.
“For the 2024 Beijing show, there were no models currently being developed together by Geely and PROTON on display, but we felt it was an important opportunity to showcase models and technologies that may be adapted in the future. Looking ahead, Malaysians can expect to see more of Geely’s global platforms and intelligent new energy architecture being incorporated into upcoming PROTON models, ushering in a new era of comprehensive AI intelligence in the automotive industry in Malaysia,” said Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON.
