Proton's EV due in 2025 not a rebadged vehicle, it'll be their very own!

KUALA LUMPUR: At the recent Buka Puasa event hosted by Proton, the unveiling of Proton's touching Hari Raya video left many moved.

The film starred notable figures such as Shaheizy Sam, Pekin Ibrahim, Sharifah Amani, Fauziah Ahmad Daud, Mona Allen, and featured a cameo by Tuan Haji Roslan Abdullah, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of PROTON.

Amid the emotional resonance of the video, Roslan Abdullah reiterated Proton's commitment to launch an electric vehicle (EV) in 2025, in response to government requests.

Contrary to initial speculation that Proton's EV would be a rebranded Geely Geometry model, it has emerged that Proton is developing its own EV with Geely's assistance.

This collaboration is expected to produce both Geely and Proton variants of the upcoming fully electric model, which has already completed its design and prototype phases and is now in testing.

Roslan highlighted Proton's significant role in the vehicle's research and development, particularly in adapting it for Malaysia. Despite the joint venture, all versions of this EV, designed to cater to different markets, will initially be produced in China due to the need for new manufacturing facilities in Malaysia.

However, preparations are underway for its local assembly (CKD). Roslan assured that the focus on affordability, functionality, and practicality will make the EV an accessible option, emphasizing Proton's commitment to offering an economically viable and efficient electric vehicle.

This development adds an intriguing layer to the Proton EV narrative, ignited by CEO Li Chunrong's announcement that the automaker plans to introduce its proprietary electric vehicle (EV) "very soon."

This statement reinforces earlier comments made by Proton Chairman Datuk Seri Syed Faisal Albar at the Proton S70 unveiling last November. Mirroring the approach taken with the smart#1, details about the Proton EV will be released in a phased manner.

This strategic rhythm has been seen in previous rollouts, where initial announcements marked the commencement of production followed by the opening of bookings, setting a pattern for revealing information piece by piece.

Initially, there was speculation that Proton's entry into the electric vehicle (EV) market would involve launching a model under a rebadging arrangement, using the Geely Geometry C as a base.

The Geometry C, known for its impressive range of 400km to 500km, depending on the battery variant, closely matches the dimensions of the Proton X70, measuring 4432mm in length, 1833mm in width, and 1560mm in height compared to the X70's dimensions of 4519mm x 1831mm x 1694mm.

Boasting up to 201 horsepower and a maximum speed of 150km/h, the Geometry C presents a compelling blend of performance and size, positioning it as an attractive option in Proton's evolving electric lineup, but now it seems that Proton will be producing their own model, with the help of Geely. 

It wouldn't be such a big surprise if the technical specs would be the same as the Geometry C, but of course with Proton's design, ride and handling as well as touches that makes it a Malaysian car.

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