Malaysian automobile maker Proton announced on Monday plans to develop an "Islamic car," intended for Muslim motorists. The "unique" vehicle will have a compass that points to Mecca, the holiest site among Islam, and a dedicated space to keep a copy of the Koran and a headscarf.

In a statement, Proton said it has started negotiations with car makers in Iran and Turkey to produce the car.

It adds that a delegation of Malaysian businessmen and politicians in Iran brought home the idea after Iranian officials made the suggestion.

While most car manufacturers always market their vehicles for their safety and fuel efficiency, Proton says a specially designed cars for Muslims across the globe represent a gap in the market.