Proton Cars UK is to offer “substantial” financial support to dealers willing to take the franchise as the Malaysian company prepares for a series of new models. Many current dealers are likely to be replaced.

Executives understand dealers' reluctance in view of the current model line-up. Large dealer groups will be asked to commit to membership of the Proton Partners Programme. The manufacturer pledges financial rewards in return for meeting registration, stocking and demonstrator commitments.

Proton will also financially assist businesses which take agency dealerships in areas where a full dealership might not be viable. This will be called the Proton Associates Programme, with those dealers have lower new car registration targets.