Plans to initiate a third national car project will not be a reboot of Proton, assured International Trade and Industry Deputy Minister Ong Kian Ming.

This is as the National Automotive Policy, which is under review, is heading in the direction of energy-efficient electric cars.

“There are many things that can be updated in terms of how we want to make the aspiration of (Prime Minister) Dr Mahathir (Mohamad) to propel the automotive industry into something more sustainable and green,” Ong was quoted as saying by The Sun last night.

He added that inputs from the industry and stakeholders are important to help the ministry shape the National Automotive Policy.

"We hope the public does not think that Mahathir’s intention is to revive Proton as Proton 2.0. There are many more ideas that he has,” Ong said.

Mahathir's push for a third national car has been panned by critics as being unnecessary.

The prime minister, however, is forging ahead, and is looking for a Japanese automotive partner to help set up the third national car project.

The government is reportedly eyeing to launch the project by 2020.