Geely's Smart #1: Q4 2023 launch, 800 to 1,000 units per year, to be Malaysia's best-selling EV?

• Smart #1 launching in Malaysia by Q4 2023
• Malaysians can preview it as soon as May 2023

It’s no secret that Smart will be returning to Malaysia soon. Earlier today, Proton inked a deal with the EV-only Smart Automotive Company which will see a new subsidiary called Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd responsible for sales and distribution of Smart’s EV models.

Models and prices have yet to be confirmed, but the first model will most likely be the Smart #1, a part-hatchback, part-SUV model that has been a hit in China and will soon go on sale in Europe. Depending on who you ask, #1 can be pronounced as "number one" or "hashtag one". 

Also Read: Proton signs deal to sell Geely-Mercedes' Smart EV models; Sales by Q4 2023, own charging network planned

For Malaysia, Proton said that the Smart #1 will land here in early Q4 2023 and the company aims to sell 800 to 1,000 units a year. Local preview sessions could be as soon as May 2023. 

That said, Malaysia isn't likely to be the first right-hand drive (RHD) market for the Smart #1, as UK will likely claim that title. Bookings for the Smart #1 in the UK are set to open in December 2022 and deliveries will commence in summer 2023 (circa May to June 2023). 

Also Read: First EV to be sold by Proton, are Malaysians willing to pay RM 120k for the Smart #1?

As for dealership and servicing, Proton’s Head of Corporate Communications Salawati Mohd Yusoff elaborated by saying, “Currently, we are very open with our approach. We know that we have fairly good dealers of our own who can take up these challenges as we go into EVs.”

She added, “We are also very open into making sure that the establishment of network of Smart brand is acceptable to the lifestyle of the consumers we want hence we are exploring beyond, not just showrooms, but we’re also looking at the placement of where the brand is suitable.”

Also Read: Malaysia-bound 2022 Smart #1 launched in China, priced from RM 125k, 272 PS, up to 560 km range

As a brief recap, the Smart #1 is the first model to be offered by Smart, now part of a Geely-Mercedes-Benz joint venture. Mercedes-Benz lead the design of the product, which will be built on Geely's SEA platform. The latter will also build the cars in China for China as well as export markets. 

Three variants are offered in China at the moment, with a maximum range of up to 560 km. Power comes from a rear-mounted electric motor that does 272 PS and 343 Nm.

Also Read: First look at Smart #1 - Soon to be Proton Edar's first EV, developed by Mercedes-Benz, built by Geely