PROTON is launching a manufacturer approved remarketing programme to protect the residual values of its ex-rental stock. The prices of nearly new Protons have come under pressure after plans to export the ex-hire cars disintegrated with the crash of the Malaysian economy.

The Bristol-based importer rocketed into the fleet sales top 10 at the start of 1997 when it announced a deal to supply Avis Rent A Car with 2,500 Personas in just three months. And its daily rental commitments increased even further with fast-cycle deals to supply around 3,500 Personas to Avis, EuroDollar (now National Car Rental) and United Kenning.

Proton has appointed Ian Hull as manager of its used vehicle remarketing department, where he will take responsibility for the disposal of all ex-rental cars and the development of a Proton approved used car retailing programme via Proton's 145-strong dealer network.

The remarketing programme has yet to be branded, but all the rental cars will be factory refurbished and RAC quality checked. For a limited period Proton will support dealers entering the programme with the offer of three years' free servicing, two years' free insurance, and one year free road tax; or a zero deposit, 0% finance scheme over four years for all Persona 1.5 and 1.6 models.