Proton Recruits German Quality Expert, Picks Up Major Manufacturing Awards

Proton has appointed industry veteran Dr Wolfgang Karl Epple as the Malaysian carmaker’s Director of Quality. This is clearly a sign that the company has big plans to tackle the Japanese and Euro brands on quality, as well as affordability.

Dr Epple worked for BMW AG for 23 years, holding significant positions in Munich and South Africa.

Most recently, Dr Epple served as Vice President of Quality Management Research and Development with BMW AG.

Proton managing director Syed Zainal said Dr Epple’s strong technical managerial expertise and leadership will help the company through its planned quality transformation.

"Dr Epple is optimistic and looks forward to contributing and developing Proton's quality function and aims to further improve Proton's brand equity in the respective markets," said Syed Zainal.

As part of its plans, Proton has opened a state of the art production facility at Tanjung Malim in Malaysia, which has received a Gold award from industrial analysts Frost & Sullivan in it's Malaysia Manufacturing Excellence Awards(MMEA) for 2009.

Frost & Sullivan also awarded Proton a Silver award for Automobile innovation.

"These awards signify our commitment to our customers and in meeting their expectations.

We are most honored with the recognitions by Frost & Sullivan and these awards will further motivate us in continuing our commitment to produce quality cars that meet market needs," said Syed Zainal.