Proton has announced plans to localise key vehicle components—namely advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), braking, lighting, and HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems—through partnerships with Geely-affiliated suppliers.
These efforts are expected to support the rollout of future models, including the upcoming Saga MC3.
The announcement was made during a vendor signing ceremony on 24 June 2025, where Proton formalised several joint ventures and technical cooperation agreements with component suppliers from China.
Localising tech through strategic partnerships
One of the key partnerships involves Delloyd Technologies Berhad, a long-time Proton vendor, which will enter a joint venture with Imotion Automotive Technology (Suzhou) to develop and supply ADAS components. Imotion also supplies brands under Geely, such as Zeekr, Chery, and Volvo.
The collaboration is expected to support Proton’s adoption of features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-change assist, and other driver-assist modules. These features are likely to debut in the Saga MC3, the facelifted version of Proton's best-selling sedan.
In addition to ADAS, Proton is also focusing on localising braking systems. PEPS-JV (M) Sdn Bhd will work with Liuzhou Sanly Auto Parts to develop braking components for the Saga MC3 and the Proton X-Series SUVs.
Proton’s move to upgrade its lighting systems involves JHM Consolidation Berhad, which is forming a joint venture with Jiangsu Dekai Auto Parts to manufacture advanced headlamps locally. These new lighting systems are expected to meet global safety and performance standards.
For HVAC systems, Trillion Speed will collaborate with Shanghai Yinlun to locally produce key components for efficient climate control, reducing Proton’s reliance on imported parts.
Two technical cooperation agreements were also signed:
- SHJ Interia with Changchun Fawsn Automotive Trim to develop interior components, including roof headliners.
- Xenso Electronics with Freetech Intelligent Systems to localise rear- and side-detection ADAS sensors.
Key localised systems and tech specs (Expected)
Based on Proton’s vendor collaborations, here are the systems and components that will be localised for upcoming models:
- Proton Saga MC3 and Future Models
- ADAS Components
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-change assist
- Rear and side detection systems
- Braking Systems
- Upgraded local production for enhanced safety
- Lighting Systems
- Advanced LED headlamp manufacturing
- HVAC Systems
- Local assembly of cooling and ventilation units
- Interior Components
- Roof headliners and trims via new production methods
Do you think localising these tech components will improve Proton’s vehicles in Malaysia and across Southeast Asia? Will features like ADAS and smart lighting raise expectations for future Proton models?
Stay tuned to TechNave.com for more updates.
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