Proton is gearing up to launch a brand-new e.MAS model by the end of the year, marking an exciting step forward for Malaysia’s first national EV brand. This news was confirmed by Proton’s deputy CEO, Roslan Abdullah, during an Iftar session with the media last week.
However, he remained tight-lipped about the exact launch date, keeping the details under wraps and fueling speculation about what’s to come. During the session, Roslan couldn’t resist taking a playful dig at Perodua’s upcoming EV, which is expected to feature a battery leasing programme. With a cheeky remark, he assured that the battery would come together with Proton’s new e.MAS model.
The possibility of a second e.MAS has been circulating for some time, with even Proton’s CEO, Dr. Li Chunrong, previously hinting at such plans. Rumours suggest that the new model could either be the Proton e.MAS 5, a small hatchback, or even a plug-in hybrid version of the e.MAS 7.
However, industry chatter keeps pointing to one specific name: the Geely Xingyuan. Strengthening this theory is the fact that Proton reportedly showcased this particular model to select e.MAS dealers during a visit to Geely’s headquarters in Zhejiang, China. Moreover, an old teaser video of the e.MAS brand has only added fuel to the speculation.
The footage in question featured a silhouette of a compact EV hatchback that bears a striking resemblance to the Geely Xingyuan. If the upcoming Proton e.MAS is indeed based on this model, it could come with a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 114 HP (85 kW), allowing for a top speed of 135 KM/H. Battery options might include a 30.12-kWh CATL LFP pack with a range of up to 310 KM, or a larger 40.16-kWh unit capable of delivering up to 410 KM of range.
With Perodua also preparing to enter the EV market with what is expected to be a small hatchback based on the eMO-II concept, Proton’s latest move could signal a direct challenge. Roslan’s playful jab at battery leasing might hint that the upcoming e.MAS model will go head-to-head with Perodua’s EV in the same segment. Whether Proton’s latest electric vehicle will live up to expectations remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—the battle for Malaysia’s EV market is about to get a lot more exciting.
(Source: Caricarz)
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