The first batch of 1200 Protons, due to arrive in SA this year, have officially been offloaded in Durban. Proton are to be distributed by Combined Motor Holdings (CMH), the JSE listed specialist motor retailer. With 40 years of success in motor retail, CMH are well equipped to provide a stable platform from which to launch this brand.
CMH will be supported in the market by 25 dedicated Proton Dealerships. CMH reintroduced Volvo to SA in the 90’s and were voted as VOLVO’s international distributor of the year prior to Ford taking over the distribution.
Geely, who owns Volvo, and Lotus and is a significant shareholder of Mercedes Benz, purchased Proton in 2017 and commenced with an aggressive upgrade to the product offering. The ownership of the above-mentioned companies has allowed them to incorporate the latest European technologies and designs into the Proton X50 and X70, which are the two variants launching in South Africa in September. The equivalent Geely left-hand drive versions have sold over 2.8 million cars globally, contributing to Geely’s status as the world’s 8th biggest car manufacturer.
Starting from R450 000, the Proton X50 and X70 will be available for purchase from September 2022
The X50 and X70 have class-leading engines, technologies, designs, safety features and warranties that allow them to compete with European luxury brands but without the excessive cost, that comes with owning a luxury SUV. This is “Affordable Luxury”.
