​​Proton, Maxis team up for 5G use case deployment

• Part of Proton’s growth strategy to develop smart city
• Will enable Proton to design, build autonomous vehicles.

Proton Holdings Bhd has selected Maxis as its partner to deploy a 5G use case comprising multiple converged solutions to power up its Tanjung Malim plant, with network installations beginning October. 

In a joint statement, the national car maker said the partnership is part of its growth strategy in developing Proton City as a model smart city through state-of-the-art tools and systems, as well as Maxis’ commitment to delivering the best 5G innovation and solutions for enterprises.

The use case will rely on a purpose-built 5G network and Maxis will manage the end-to-end services for several IoT solutions at Proton’s manufacturing headquarters in Tanjung Malim, Perak, they said.

Both companies said the solutions include smart security systems to track and ensure the security of cars that roll off the production line and an augmented reality or virtual reality remote support and maintenance system.

This will enable Proton engineers to communicate with their international partners in real time, to troubleshoot technical issues and ensure production quality, they added.

Dr Li Chunrong, chief executive officer (CEO) of Proton said implementing 5G tech at Proton’s main plant is an important step in our growth strategy. 

“Through this strategic partnership with Maxis, we look forward to unlocking opportunities that can translate into enhanced security, a safer environment, improved efficiencies, and ultimately, build better quality cars,” he said. 

“This partnership with Proton for proof of concept is testament to our key role that we have been playing in fostering a digital ecosystem for industries through innovation,” said Gokhan Ogut, CEO of Maxis.

In the journey towards creating a smart Proton City, 5G technology will eventually fulfil the carmaker’s vision of building its smart manufacturing campus.

This will be enabled through the promise of high-speed data transfer and low latency, delivering better mobility, reliability and seamless connectivity for on-campus public and private communications, security surveillance, smart lighting, smart buildings, among others, the companies said.

The 5G technology will also allow Proton to extend its research and development in cellular vehicle-to-everything technology, which will allow the carmaker to design and build robust future-proof autonomous vehicles.