e.MAS 5: Proton’s Answer to an EV for the Masses

Proton Holdings Bhd (Proton) is wasting no time after the strong reception of its first electric vehicle, the e.MAS 7. The company is now looking ahead to its second EV model, the e.MAS 5, which is expected to be more family-oriented and offered at a more accessible price point.

According to Deputy CEO Roslan Abdullah, Proton is currently evaluating several key aspects of the upcoming model, including affordability, practicality, and driving range, to ensure it suits the everyday needs of Malaysian drivers.

“We’re still in the research stage, so nothing is finalised yet. But the e.MAS 5 will likely appeal more to young families and will carry a more budget-friendly price tag to encourage broader adoption of electric mobility,” Roslan told Berita Harian.

While official specifications are still under wraps, the e.MAS 5 is expected to mirror the setup of its Geely cousin — the Geely Xiangyuan (also known as Star Wish) — which is already on sale in China and Thailand.

The standard variant features a rear-mounted motor producing 79 HP and 130 NM of torque, capable of reaching a top speed of 125 KM/H. It runs on a 30.12 kWh LFP battery and delivers a CLTC-rated range of 310 KM. Fast charging is supported up to 58 kW.

An extended-range version is also expected, packing a more powerful 116 HP motor with 150 NM of torque and a slightly higher top speed of 135 KM/H. This model is equipped with a larger 40.16 kWh LFP battery that offers a longer CLTC range of 410 KM, along with support for faster DC charging up to 86 kW.

Roslan noted that the company’s future EV models will be produced at Proton’s upcoming EV manufacturing facility in the Automotive High Tech Valley (AHTV) located in Tanjung Malim, Perak.

Construction of the RM82 million plant began in February and is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The first phase will support an annual production capacity of 20,000 vehicles.

“Our goal is to maximise the return on this investment by fully utilising the plant’s output potential. It will serve as the launchpad for multiple EV and new energy vehicle (NEV) models based on the Global Modular Architecture (GMA),” he said.

Proton is already preparing for the second phase of development, which could see the factory’s capacity grow to 45,000 units per year, depending on both local and international demand.

A third phase is also being considered, though Roslan said future decisions will be shaped by the rapid evolution of EV technology.

“The e.MAS 7 is just the beginning. We’re building the foundation now to support a broader shift toward sustainable mobility in the region,” he added.