Proton confirms Smart #3 will be launched in Malaysia, Smart #1 on track for Q4 2023 launch

Proton has confirmed that its subsidiary Pro-Net will be launching the Smart #3 after China and Europe.

The Smart #3 is the second model to be launched by the newly established Geely-Mercedes-Benz joint venture, which has since been re-launched as a battery EV-only brand.

Compared to the Smart #1, the Smart #3 is a larger SUV that’s about the size of a Toyota Corolla Cross.

Power for the Smart #3 comes from a rear-mounted electric motor that does 272 PS. Smart also offers an all-wheel drive variant with an additional front-mounted motor that does 156 PS, allowing for a combined output of 428 PS.

Battery capacity and driving range is not revealed but we know that the smaller Smart #1 can do up to 440 km with a 66 kWh battery.

“Proton will soon enter the NEV market in Malaysia as we heed the government’s call to transform the country into a regional hub for next generation vehicles (NxGV). Our first step is to launch the mild-hybrid powered Proton X90 followed by the introduction of the smart #1. However, following the signing of a Heads of Agreement (HoA) document with Geely earlier this month and the subsequent visit to the Zeekr intelligent factory by the MITI Minister, we are considering accelerating our timeline for model introductions,” said Dr. Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer, Proton, and Chairman, Pro-Net at yesterday’s opening of the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show.

Also read: Review: Behind the wheel of Smart #1 in Malaysia, the Mercedes EV for people who can't afford a Mercedes

Dr. Li also added that the company is on track to launch the Smart #1 by Q4 2023, followed by the Smart #3, after the model is launched in China and Europe.

On the Smart #1, Dr. Li said, “As it will be our first EV model, there are a lot of areas that require careful planning prior to launching the Smart #1. We have recruited our dealers, are working on charging solutions, and are also considering new and innovative ways to deliver a brand experience in line with the core values of the smart brand.

“Ultimately, we envision Pro-Net to be the main driver for EV models at Proton, meaning that we will also add to the range of Smart models in Malaysia in the future. Our resources are fully focused on ensuring the smooth market introduction of the #1 and that customers will receive the support expected by buyers of a premium EV product,” added Dr Li Chunrong.