Proton's latest car model named 'Preve'

Proton Holdings Bhd has chosen to name its latest car model, "PREVE", to grab the attention of both the local and global markets.

Previously codenamed P3-21A, Group Managing Director, Datuk Seri Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir said the new name means proof, or had proven to the world that Proton can produce cars which met every stringent global specification.

"We want to be a global car maker with a global appearance, global thinking and obviously need a name that signifies where the company is today and where we want to go globally.

"So, we have come up with PREVE, to also showcase the company after 27 years in the automotive industry," he told a press conference here today.

The media were given an opportunity to test-drive the new car over 156 kilometres.

Syed Zainal Abidin said the PREVE can garner a higher profit margin for the company with its price range of RM62,000-RM75,000 depending on the version.

He said the PREVE is scheduled to be officially launched this month by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

Proton has given importance to the styling of the car to attract a global audience, while previous models, were more tailor-made for the domestic environment.

Syed Zainal is also optimistic of monthly sales of 4,000-4,500 units for the new global car.

He is also confident that the PREVE will prove an attraction for overseas buyers and Proton is undertaking testing of the car at present for sale in South East Asia, Australia and the Middle East.

Proton has paid much attention to safety features, including body strength improvement, speed and fuel consumption, accessories as well as handling system in creating the global car. -- BERNAMA