smart Malaysia via PRO-NET appoints EON Berhad as an authorised dealer

Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (PRO-NET) has appointed Edaran Otomobil Nasional Berhad (EON), the automotive retail arm of DRB-HICOM, as an official dealer for smart Malaysia. The addition of EON follows the appointment of a Hap Seng Group company, Hap Seng Smart, earlier this month, with five other dealership appointments to be announced soon.

Their inclusion into the smart family also enhances the EV brand’s visibility and awarenessamongst Malaysian car buyers, in the build up towards the introduction of the award winning smart #1 is Q4 of 2023.

Aside of EON being one of Malaysia's largest multi-brand dealerships representing several notable automotive brands (Proton, Audi, Mitsubishi and Volkswagen) and the fact that EON and PRO-NET are both under the DRB-Hicom umbrella (as well as smart being a company owned by Mercedes-Benz and Geely, which in turn manages and owns shares in PROTON which is co-owned by DRB-Hicom), EON's appointment reflects PRO-NET’s commitment to penetrate the vibrant EV market in Malaysia. 

But that said, they do have a readily available car sales network and customers that could be utilised by smart.

According to PRO-NET, the appointment of EON as a dealer for smart Malaysia showcases another historic milestone for PROTON and its subsidiaries group, coming almost four decades after the company and EON pioneered the evolution of Malaysia’s automotive industry with the latter appointed as the first and exclusive dealer for Proton cars.

“We are very excited to be partnering with a well-established and trusted brand in the automotive industry. PRO-NET believes EON’s vast knowledge and experience coupled withDRB-HICOM’s extensive customer reach will create an ideal synergy that will propel smart Malaysia’s vision to great heights, and we will continue to work with outstanding business partners in the industry to introduce premium brand experiences, products, and services,” said Zhang Qiang, CEO of PRO-NET.

“EON is committed to contribute towards the success of this new partnership. We are led by a dynamic team with vast experience which gives us the advantage to create synergy with smart Malaysia to meet the demand for the smart #1 and yield a significant impact on the local market,’’ said Akkbar Danial, Chief Executive Officer and Head of Automotive Distribution for DRB-HICOM.

“We have chosen to start our pure EV journey from our iconic building along the Glenmarie automotive corridor to serve customers from the region”, added Akkbar Danial.

The appointment of its new dealerships is part of smart Malaysia’s strategy to make its new premium, intelligent, and all-electric auto brand to be the ideal urban companion to Malaysian EV buyers. smart is therefore building an ecosystem that enables e-mobility in its entirety to ensure delivery of outstanding service towards its customers and ensuring that the customer experience for these new types of vehicles is catered for completely. 

A part of this strategy is the smart app, enabling customers to embark on a digital journey and enjoy online services – from getting product information to making orders and payments conveniently.

It also provides easy access to an EV charging map and DC charging facilities, allowing smart car owners to stay charged on-the-go to improve their daily motoring routine. smart dealers are also equipped with full sales and service support for the customer’s peace of mind and will offer a premium customer experience and other additional services to including quick charging, quick repair services and a delivery center.

“Our team has been making amazing progress ever since we began the journey last year, and with our exciting new smart #1 model, we are confident that we will be making a great contribution to the future of electric mobility for the Malaysian market, and dealership appointment is one of the key strategies. We will be announcing a few more appointments in the coming weeks" added Zhang Qiang.

Things are taking shape with PRO-NET. With its strong combination of technologically advanced products, strong partners, and dedication towards offering a new level of customer service, After all the dealerships have been appointment, we shall see the smart branded EVs here in Malaysia. The EV segment is picking up steam, and lots of competition in the next few years.