Malaysian car manufacturer Proton – owner of Norfolk-based sports car company Group Lotus – has confirmed its interest in the Renault F1 team ahead of the 2011 season, with rumours continuing to circulate that the Enstone squad could change names.
Although the ‘Renault’ trademark remains in Formula 1, the French company sold the majority of its shares to Luxembourg’s Genii Capital (headed by Gerard Lopez) ahead of the 2010 season, with the latter then electing to retain the team name. However, ‘Lotus’ branding could still bizarrely switch from one team to another in 2011.
“Yes, that's the intent,” Datuk Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir, Proton’s Managing Director, explained to Malaysian newspaper The Star of the company’s interest in the Renault outfit.
“A decision will be made soon. We're close, just wait for a few days. (A possible) 25 percent (shareholding) is something that we’re discussing - it's still too premature to disclose the exact percentage but it has to be a position where we can control our brand.”
FYI Proton has been making losses for years, and have constantly been bailed out by the government (using taxpayers money).
All imported cars (BMs, Merc, etc) are taxed 300% to ensure the less fortunate can't afford any other than Proton.
Proton cars are called "tin milo" (Milo cans) by the nation simply due to the aesthetics, design, and safety.
Proton has made ONE genuine car - the Proton Waja, with the Malaysian made Campro engine. All other cars so far have been using Mitsubishi engines/gearboxes and Daihatsus.
The very next "new" car Proton is developing is the Proton Inspira, where they have taken a Mitsubishi Lancer, changed the suspension to Lotus engineered suspensions, and badged it the 'Inspira'.
Proton is going to support a rival F1 team with a massive amount of taxpayers money, when they have their own Lotus team which has done the nation proud and could very well surprise the grid next year with a much improved package.
Mr Datuk Syed Zainal Abidin,
you are an *****. (In accordance with forum rules)
BTW, I am a Malaysian, proud owner of a 14 year old BMW E34...hoping to live to see the day Proton dies.
!
