It appears that Detroit Electric has finally settled on Proton for its partner in producing its electric cars. According to a release by Detroit Electric, the company is set to sign a RM 1.2 billion (US$331 million) agreement with Proton to produce pure electric cars based on protons, beginning with the Proton Persona.
When we attended Detroit Electric’s press preview back in September 2008, we got to sample some electric cars converted by the company, such as an electric Lotus Elise. There were also various prototype electric cars there such as a Persona and a Savvy.
According to Detroit Electric head Albert Lam, a 100% electric powered Persona could be available in the regions of RM 80,000. Detroit Electric will use a production line at Proton’s Shah Alam manufacturing plant to produce the electric Protons.
Read our previous write-ups on Detroit Electric for more info.
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments about the Proton and Detroit Electric partnership reflect cautious optimism, emphasizing the potential for technological advancement and economic benefits for Malaysia. Many appreciate Proton's move into electric vehicles as forward-looking and a step toward greener transportation, though concerns about infrastructure, battery lifespan, charging time, and costs remain. Some skeptics doubt the practicality and feasibility of full electric cars in Malaysia due to power grid limitations and charging infrastructure. Others highlight that Proton is earning revenue from manufacturing platforms, not spending excessively, and that the move could boost local industries and skills. Overall, sentiments are a mix of hope and cautious skepticism, with many supporting the initiative as a necessary progress toward sustainable mobility.