New C-segment entry from Peugeot next year
Nasim Sdn Bhd and Automobiles Peugeot yesterday put pen to paper on a Memorandum of Understanding to have a new Peugeot model rolling out of Naza’s plant in Gurun. The signing took place in conjunction with Nasim’s opening of a new Peugeot Blue Box in Ipoh.
Although official press release materials gave no specifics beyond calling it a ‘C-segment sedan’, the model in question is believed to be the Peugeot 408, a 308-based sedan currently marketed and produced exclusively in China. Members of the Malaysian press were shown images of the 408 during a media briefing held in January, and it was already speculated then that the model might eventually arrive in our shores.
Representing their respective organizations at the signing ceremony were SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin, CEO of Nasim Sdn. Bhd, and Jean-Phillipe Imparato, Vice President of Peugeot, International Sales & Marketing.
“This MOU not only marks Automobiles Peugeot’s faith in us as their ASEAN production hub partner, but is also evidence of their confidence in our manufacturing quality, manpower, strong domestic sales and local vendor base,” said SM Nasarudin.
The new Blue Box in Ipoh brings Nasim’s sales network in the country to a total of 20 outlets, made up of 13 branches and 7 dealers. The Ipoh Blue Box makes it a total of six Peugeot 3S centres in the country.
In terms of sales performance, Nasim has sold 1,200 Peugeot vehicles in the first half of 2010 and has already collected 400 signatures in the order books for the newly-launched 3008 crossover SUV.
