Let’s have a flashback to November 21st 1987, in this article by Reuters archived by the New York Times.
LEAD: Malaysia’s money-losing national auto manufacturer, Proton, signed an accord today to distribute its Proton Saga car in the United States. Proton America Inc., headed by Malcolm Bricklin of Bricklin Industries, will import the car. ”Production of the models bound for the United States will begin in October 1988, once modifications to meet U.S.
Malaysia’s money-losing national auto manufacturer, Proton, signed an accord today to distribute its Proton Saga car in the United States. Proton America Inc., headed by Malcolm Bricklin of Bricklin Industries, will import the car. ”Production of the models bound for the United States will begin in October 1988, once modifications to meet U.S. requirements are completed,” a Proton executive vice president, Dan Prior, told reporters.
It’d be interesting to note that this Malcolm Bricklin is the very same person who is trying to bring Chery into the US through his Visionary Vehicles venture, which has gone through some hiccups lately. He was also responsible for the introduction of other marques into the US market like Subaru, Fiat (rebadged Bertone) and Yugo.
Proton X90
from RM106,800 
Proton S70
from RM73,800 
Proton eMas 7 PHEV
from RM109,800 
Proton X70
from RM106,800 
Proton Saga
from RM38,990 
Proton eMas 5
from RM59,800 
Proton X50
from RM89,800 
Proton eMas 7
from RM103,800 
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments express skepticism about Proton entering the US market, citing outdated engines, safety standards, and lack of brand recognition. Many believe Proton’s quality is better overseas than domestically, but challenges like high prices, poor reputation, and market differences hinder success. Some mention Proton’s past attempts and the difficulty of meeting US standards, with a general tone of doubt about Proton's prospects of launching in the US. Overall, sentiments are largely skeptical or critical of Proton’s international ambitions.