KOTA KINABALU: Proton is currently exploring the possibility of developing cars fuelled by hydrogen.
Deputy chief executive officer Roslan Abdullah said hydrogen, which the Sarawak government is optimising the production of the element, will undoubtedly bring benefits to the nation and public.
"We will evaluate how hydrogen will benefit us. We have to consider technology, availability, and investment, as well as the public reception," he said after the launch of Proton's latest S70 model at a shopping mall here.
Roslan added that for the move towards developing cars using sustainable fuel, the government plays a more crucial role in formulating policies for people to use such vehicles, including electric vehicles (EV).
He said in some developed countries, governments provide incentives such as free parking for EV drivers.
Currently, the Malaysian government excludes tax payments for EV owners.
"For fossil-fuelled car owners, they can go to petrol stations to refuel within five minutes but can get (travel up to 100 kilometres), but it contributes to bad carbon emissions.
"While for EVs, drivers need proper planning to recharge cars for a longer period for similar mileage. That is why we need to educate people on the benefits and convenience of EV," he said, adding that Proton expects to have its own EV in 2025.
Earlier, he said Proton has sold over 3,000 units of the S70 nationwide since its launch in Kuala Lumpur on Nov 28.
The company aims to sell between 2,000 and 3,000 units of the S70 every month and estimates about 10 per cent or more of the sales from Sabah.
"Sabah is always known for (favouring) SUVs and pickups. But what I observed in the last five years is a mingling of sedan car enthusiasts.
"Proton already has Saga and Persona sedans. Saga is always number one in Sabah, and we hope S70 will follow suit."