Proton’s top dealers visit Geely operations in China

PETALING JAYA: Proton Holdings Bhd recently invited 28 top Proton dealers on a trip to visit Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co Ltd in China.

This was in line with Proton’s plan to showcase how Geely dealers operate centres in Shanghai.

Proton said in a statement that the dealers comprised sales and service centre owners, and a representative from a financial institution.

The visit was also part of the national carmaker’s efforts to urge dealers and service centre operators to upgrade their facilities in preparation for new Proton models that will be launched next year.

I was sceptical at first but from the moment I sat in the Boyue, I knew this was the right vehicle for Proton’s new image. Ryan Lai

For many, this was their first trip to China where a car dealer actually opened doors for Malaysians to study the daily operations there.

LHM One Stop director Ryan Lai said he was impressed with the level of customer service that Geely provided for its car owners. LHM One Stop is a Proton 4S outlet in Nilai.

“The service centre has a waiting lounge that looks similar to that of a five-star hotel.

“Usually, the atmosphere can only be experienced by European premium car owners but Geely is offering such a service to customers,” Lai said.

During the trip, dealers were also invited to test drive the Geely Boyue, which will be launched in Malaysia soon.

“I was sceptical at first but from the moment I sat in the Boyue, I knew this was the right vehicle for Proton’s new image,” Lai added.

Susan Leong from Hoi Keen Service in Kuantan concurred with Lai. “It has a luxurious interior and looks premium for its segment,” said Leong.

The dealers also got the chance to visit Geely Research Institute that showcased the group’s current technology and future design.

DRB-Hicom Bhd holds a 50.1% stake in Proton while 49.9% is owned by Geely.