![PRO-NET and Public Bank [2023]](https://www.motaauto.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/PRO-NET-and-Public-Bank-2023-1.jpg "PRO-NET and Public Bank [2023]")
Although smart had a presence in Malaysia during the 2000s, it was discontinued and faded away. Now that it is returning and sales will begin later this year, fresh efforts are underway to re-introduce the brand that is jointly owned by Mercedes-Benz and Geely.
The efforts are comprehensive and encompass everything related to selling and supporting the smart electric cars. While car companies have, until now, not had to be involved in fuel matters, with EVs, this is a necessary part of the business which PRO-NET Sdn Bhd (Proton New Energy Technology) is also looking into.
First EV brand to collaborate with Public Bank
Also important is financing facilities for customers to make it easy for them to make the purchase. This has led the company to collaborate with Public Bank Berhad (PBB) to provide financing facilities as well as to embark on digitalization via systems integration with smart Malaysia and its authorized dealers. smart is the first EV brand to collaborate with PBB.
The two companies recently signed a Memorandum of Collaboration which will see PBB interface and facilitate digitalization via online submission of hire-purchase (H-P) end-financing applications and Floor Stocking facility through smart customer App and their authorized.
RM33 billion for EV financing
“Supporting the growth of the New Energy Vehicles has always been a key pillar to our climate agenda. Public Bank mobilized over RM30 billion in domestic NEV financing by the end of 2022, representing approximately 52% of the bank’s total domestic Hire-Purchase financing portfolio. To signify the bank’s commitment, the NEV lending target had now been increased to RM33 billion by 2025,” said Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Tay Ah Lek, Managing Director & CEO of Public Bank Berhad.
“There is a compelling opportunity for Public Bank and PRO-NET to foster strong synergies from the onset. Not only will this be win-win in advancing our respective business objectives, but it also contributes to another win in our common battle against climate change, “he added.
For a seamless digital customer journey
“The advent of New Energy Vehicles signifies a significant departure from traditional products by leveraging EV technology to foster enhanced connectivity and address evolving consumer needs. At the heart of PRO-NET’s mission lies a strong commitment to deliver a seamless digital customer journey in collaboration with esteemed eco-partners, aiming to achieve a smart EV mobility ecosystem. Our goal is to ensure transparency on the transaction, enhance efficiency, and speed throughout their journey with the smart brand,” said Zhang Qiang, CEO of PRO-NET.
The first model which will be launched in Malaysia will be the smart #1 (say it as ‘hashtag 1’).
Mercedes-Benz Design has been responsible for the exterior and interior, while the platform technology uses Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA). This is a modular EV platform developed by Geely Holding and also used by other brands in its group.