Suzuki to Supply Proton-Badged Cars in Malaysia

Suzuki Motor Corp. has signed a memorandum of understanding to supply Proton Holdings Bhd with kits from which the Malaysian company will assemble cars to be marketed under its own brand.

Details about the agreement are still being finalized. The partners expect to sign a definitive deal next year.

Proton's factory in Tanjung Malim is scheduled to reportedly begin production of a rebadged version of the seven-passenger Suzuki Ertiga MPV under the deal in August 2016. The Ertiga also is marketed by Mazda Motor Corp. as the Mazda VX-1.

Suzuki says its collaboration with Proton could lead to additional rebadged models. The Japanese company also may eventually provide engines and transmissions for use in in other Proton vehicles.