Proton’s parent company is reportedly looking to sell a majority stake in the brand, with Renault, Suzuki and the PSA Group (Peugeot-Citroën) all seemingly interested in a potential deal.
Any sale, of course, could also affect British automaker Lotus, which was acquired by Proton back in 1996.
According to Reuters, Malaysian conglomerate DRB-Hicom has already sent “partnership proposals” to nearly 20 automakers, with the three listed above apparently showing an interest.
“Peugeot confirms it is responding to a request for proposals initiated by Proton and its shareholder,” a PSA Group spokesperson said. Suzuki and Renault officials, however, declined to comment to Reuters.
Interestingly, in 2007, Proton held talks with the Volkswagen Group and General Motors, but any potential deals were scuppered after the Malaysian government – which earlier this year provided Proton with more financial aid – refused to give either a controlling stake.
