Proton has officially revealed the car it will race in the 2024 Sepang 1000km (S1K) event, as it aims to add to its record of six wins in Malaysia’s premier endurance race. The Proton S70 R3, first teased at the 2024 Malaysia Autoshow in May, had a development video shared on the company’s social media
Established in 2003, Proton R3—which stands for Race, Rally, Research—is Proton’s factory-supported motorsports division. Over the last 20 years, R3 has campaigned various Proton models both locally and internationally, accumulating racing and rallying success. This experience has also contributed to the development of performance-enhancing components and limited edition models for consumers. Recently, Proton R3 has expanded into performance lubricants, further solidifying its presence in motorsports.
The Proton S70 R3 is the latest addition to Proton’s long-standing motorsports heritage. Proton’s involvement in racing dates back before the creation of R3 and includes models like the Proton Saga, Wira, Satria, Waja, Satria Neo, Preve, Suprima S, Iriz, and the current Saga. The introduction of the Proton S70 R3 is particularly significant as it marks the first time Proton is entering a model co-developed with Geely into competition, just one year after its market debut.
With the Sepang 1000km race set for November 22-24, Proton and the R3 team are in the final stages of preparation. Proton holds the record for the most wins by an OEM in the race’s 15-year history with six victories, while R3 has secured five team victories, including an impressive three consecutive wins from 2017 to 2019.
The Proton S70, launched in November 2023, is Proton’s first C-segment sedan since the Preve and has become a leader in its segment, with nearly 15,000 units registered by September 2024. Powered by a 1.5T engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), the S70 is equipped with Proton’s voice command technology and 13 ADAS level 2 features. It is widely recognised for its engaging driving experience, a result of extensive collaboration between Proton and Geely engineers.
Roslan Abdullah further commented, “Despite being a new car, Proton is fielding two units of the S70 R3 in the race, rather than relying on older, proven models. We are determined to demonstrate the capabilities of our newest sedan on the racetrack, and we believe the lessons learned through racing will lead to even better vehicles for our customers in the future.”
With the upcoming race just weeks away, Proton is gearing up for a thrilling return to the track, hoping to extend its motorsports legacy with the all-new S70 R3.