Proton launches CKD Saga in Egypt; exploring SUV & NEV assembly

KUALA LUMPUR: The Proton Saga has been a symbol of affordable mobility in Malaysia for almost 40 years. Beyond Malaysia, the popularity of this compact sedan extends to several export markets, including Egypt, where Proton has launched the locally assembled left-hand-drive Saga in partnership with local distributor Ezz Elarab Group.

Also read: Proton Saga: Still relevant in 2025?

Notably, Ezz Elarab has been taking care of the brand for the last 20 years. During these decades, a total of 18,000 cars have been exported to the country.

Back in November, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim along with Malaysian delegates and Proton management, officiated the launch of the CKD Proton Assembly Plant in Egypt. It took three months to finally roll out the PROTON’s evergreen model. ESAF CKD plant features cutting-edge production lines and integrated manufacturing processes that ensure the vehicles meet the highest global standards.

The launch ceremony was held at the ESAF CKD plant in Cairo and attended by esteemed government officials, industry leaders, and Proton and ESAF representatives. Some of the esteemed dignitaries include - 

• H.E. Dato’ Tarid Sufian, Ambassador of Malaysia to Egypt
• Hisham Ezz Elarab, Chairman of ESAF
• Ahmed Elsewedy, Board Member of ESAF
• Li Chunrong, CEO of PROTON
• Wang Huaibing, Chief Purchasing Officer of PROTON
• Edmund Lim Meng Thong, Director of International Sales of PROTON

Upon achieving this milestone, Dr. Li Chunrong, CEO of PROTON stated, “Egypt's strategic positioning, bridging the Middle East and Africa, coupled with its vast population and promising market recovery, presents PROTON with an exceptional opportunity for growth.”

“In 2024, PROTON’s export volume grew by an impressive 31.1%, and Egypt played a crucial role in this growth. This success reinforces our commitment to making exports a key pillar of our future strategy. We are excited for the next phase and look forward to achieving even greater success with our partners in Egypt."

While the core focus will remain the Proton Saga, the company is exploring opportunities to introduce other products, including SUVs and NEVs in the Egyptian market, he added.

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Eng. Amr Abou Elseoud, CEO of Ezz Elarab Elsewedy Investment (ESI), also expressed his thoughts. “Today, we introduce the first product in a clear, well-defined strategy supported by strong partnerships. With the start of mass production in Q1 2025, this marks the beginning of a new era in local manufacturing, he said.

Adding to that, Eng. Bassem Ashmawy, General Manager of Proton Egypt, commented, “For the past 20 years, the partnership between Proton and Ezz Elarab Automotive has successfully introduced over 18,000 vehicles to the Egyptian market. Many of these models have proven their efficiency and reliability, making them a preferred choice for customers. We remain committed to delivering the highest levels of safety, comfort, and modern technology in our vehicles, and we look forward to seeing the new Proton Saga on Egyptian roads as it continues Proton’s legacy of success in the country.”

Pricing and specifications of the 2025 Proton Saga in Egypt are as follows - 

Price	EGP 629,900 (approx. RM 56k)
Engine	1.3-litre inline-four engine producing 95 hp and 120 Nm
Transmission	Four-speed automatic transmission
Exterior	LED daytime running lights, 15-inch wheels, Bee-sting Antenna, and rear spoiler, remote trunk release
Interior	7-inch infotainment screen with smartphone connectivity, Meter combination instrument panel, N95 cabin filter, 3 USB ports, multi-function steering wheel, 420-litre trunk space.
Safety	Two airbags, ABS with EBD and BA, front and rear parking sensors and camera, electronic stability control with traction control system, hill hold assist,

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