Following the signing ceremony of the appointment of Suzuki dealers as Proton Edar dealers, Datuk Abdul Harith Abdullah, CEO of Proton suggested that prices of Proton cars in Malaysia may increase after Chinese New Year. Therefore, he suggests if you’re planning on getting a Proton, better do it soon.
As for the justification of a price hike, Proton chairman Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad explained that the depreciation of the ringgit has resulted in the national carmaker needing to pay more for imported parts or services. He cited the current exchange rate where USD$1 is now equivalent to around RM4.40 instead of RM3.00 in the past.
The higher costs involved in producing cars would therefore need to be reflected in their price tags. Tun Dr Mahathir also claimed that Proton isn’t the only automaker to bear the effects of the falling ringgit as other brands will also have to face the reality of it. For now, the automaker will do its utmost best to hold on to its current prices for as long as it can.
However, nothing is set in stone, as Proton has neither confirmed nor denied a price hike for its models. For those who are interested to purchase a Proton, would you be making your move before or after the Chinese New Year celebrations? Other brands like Audi, Lexus, Toyota and Kia have already announced price hikes earlier in the year.
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments express frustration over potential price increases after CNY, citing the weakening ringgit and imported component costs. Many are skeptical of Proton's local sourcing claims, criticizing cronyism and high prices. Some suggest Proton should prioritize using local parts or stay affordable, while others believe the company won’t reduce prices even amid depreciating currency. Overall, there’s disappointment, distrust, and concern that price hikes will burden consumers, with calls for Proton to reconsider or even shut down.