Proton to launch MPV model

Proton to launch MPV model

KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters): Malaysian national carmaker Perusahaan Otomobil Nasional Bhd (Proton) is to launch in June a multi- purpose vehicle (MPV) jointly developed with Mitsubishi Motor Corp, industry sources said on Friday.

Proton, Malaysia's largest carmaker, plans to sell the new vehicle -- a clone of Mitsubishi's Townbox model -- at between 40,000 ringgit ($10,500) and 50,000 ringgit.

"Proton is planning to launch it in early June," said an industry source. "Proton's intention is to price it in the 40,000 ringgit range but it is still under government consideration."

Car dealers at Proton Edar, the state-controlled carmaker's distribution arm, confirmed that the mini MPV will be unveiled in June.

Between 2,000 and 3,000 units are expected to be on show around the country by next month, one industry source said.

The introduction of the MPV marks Proton's entry into the non- passenger car market as it looks to widen its range of products and tap the growing demand for larger vehicles among middle-class families in Malaysia.