5 things to know about the upcoming Proton e.MAS 7

The first Malaysian-brand EV, the Proton e.MAS 7, is ready to hit the roads very soon and just like many local enthusiasts, we are also very excited. This groundbreaking model represents a significant leap in Malaysia's automotive landscape and highlights Proton's commitment to innovation and sustainability. It also meets the government’s Electric Vehicle Agenda calling for national carmakers to roll out EVs by 2025.

The Proton e.MAS 7 was recently showcased at the Merdeka Parade and is now undergoing thorough testing to ensure it meets local driving conditions and performance standards. As the official launch approaches, here are five key things you need to know about this game-changing EV.

Co-developed with Geely

The e.MAS 7 shares underpinnings with the Geely Galaxy E5, however, Proton claims that it is not a simple rebadged badged model but has been co-developed between both car companies. A dedicated team of 230 Proton engineers and designers has worked on the e.MAS 7 from the start, dedicating 700,000 man-hours to its development. To make it fine-tuned for the local roads, it was put through extensive testing, including 10 million kilometres of driving, 30,000 kilometres for durability, and 100,000 kilometres for reliability. This shows Proton's commitment to delivering a high-quality electric vehicle for Malaysian drivers.

Based on Global Modular Architecture

The e.MAS 7 is the first model to feature Proton’s modular platform, called the Global Modular Architecture (GMA) platform. This architecture is essentially Geely’s Global Intelligent New Energy Architecture (GEA), marketed under a different name. It is an evolution of the Chinese automaker’s Sustainable Experience Architecture and is touted as the "world's first four-in-one AI intelligent architecture," integrating hardware, systems, ecology, and artificial intelligence. Along with the pure EVs, the said platform also supports internal combustion engines for range-extender, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid drivetrains. 

The platform is designed to integrate the battery directly into the car's body, which means the battery becomes part of the car's structure rather than just being added separately. This method is known as "cell-to-body” and makes the vehicle more strong and stable. 

Advanced 12-in-1 propulsion system and long-lasting Aegis battery

The EV packs the world's leading 12-in-1 intelligent electric propulsion system which offers an impressive efficiency rating of 90.04%. This ensures that most of the energy from the battery is used to power the vehicle, which reduces waste and improves driving range. 

The electric motor draws power from a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery using Geely's Aegis "short blade" cells, which can last for around one million km with minimal impact on range. It is available in two sizes - a 49.52-kWh option with a range of up to 440 km and a 60.22-kWh unit offering up to 530 km. With fast DC charging, the battery juices up from 30% to 80% in just 20 minutes.

Supports Proton eMAS app with vehicle telematics

Proton has confirmed that its upcoming EV will be linked to the Proton eMAS app, similar to the Hello smart app managed by Pro-Net. Supporting vehicle telematics, the app is likely to provide seamless access to the charging network, and will also be integrated into the car's infotainment system, known as Flyme Auto. The latter features a 15.4-inch touchscreen with a high-resolution 2.5K display. It is powered by a chip designed using advanced seven-nanometer technology, ensuring smooth performance and functionality.

Pricing above RM 100k

The Proton e.MAS 7 will initially be imported from China, indicating that it can not be priced below RM 100,000 due to government regulations for imported EVs. However, if Proton decides to assemble the e.MAS 7 locally, it could potentially be priced under the RM 100k mark, although there is no official information yet available on when this might happen.

Another fact indicating that the Proton EV will not be a cheap one is its dimensions. The e.MAS 7 is said to be a C-segment SUV, measuring 4,615 mm in length, 1,901 mm in width, and 1,670 mm in height, and spans a wheelbase of 2,750 mm. These dimensions make it larger than other EVs available in Malaysia, such as the BYD Atto 3, smart #1, GAC Aion Y Plus,  and Chery Omoda E5. All these electric vehicles are between RM 100,000 and RM 170,000. 

Bottom line

While the Proton e.MAS 7 is set to make waves as Malaysia’s first EV, it will face fierce competition from popular Chinese and Korean players. However, factors like competitive pricing, an expansive sales network, and strong brand loyalty will play a crucial role in helping Proton establish a solid foothold in the rapidly growing EV market.

Also read: Proton crosses 100k YTD sales mark; hits new milestone in Brunei