NOW that the Lotus name is on board, the first sign of Proton's newly developed ability to produce niche market models has been unveiled in Malaysia. The launch of a two-door high performance coupe based on the Compact.

This new model, which was previewed at the British International Motor Show last October, is the first in a series of niche models expected from Malaysia's leading vehicle manufacturer, over the next four years. Other projects, currently under development, include an MPV and a 4 X 4 sport utility vehicle.

It has taken Proton just 11 years to produce more than one million cars, With expansion plans at the main plant at Shah Alam, near Kuala Lumpur, and at another site in Malaysia now progressing at full speed, Proton expects to produce its second million cars within the next five years. Locally, Proton dealers are Arrowebrook Motors.

A decision has still to be made on the coupe's launch in the UK.

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