Proton has officially entered Nepal’s electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of the Proton e.MAS 7. The introduction of the new model comes as Nepal’s EV sector experiences rapid growth, surging nine-fold over the past few years. The much-anticipated event took place at the Regency Ballroom Hotel Hyatt Boudha, attended by key dignitaries including Mohammad Firdaus Azman, Chargé d’ Affaires of Malaysia in Nepal.

The launch of the e.MAS 7 in Nepal marks an important milestone in Proton’s international strategy. Building on the model’s remarkable success in Malaysia since its debut on December 16, Proton aims to establish a strong foothold in global markets. Addressing the audience at the event, Dr. Li Chunrong, CEO of Proton, emphasized that Nepal is just the beginning of the brand’s broader international aspirations.

Joining Dr. Li at the event were Zhang Qiang, CEO of PRO-NET, and Edmund Lim Meng Thong, Director of International Sales. Representing Proton’s authorized distributor in Nepal, Jagdamba Motors Pvt. Ltd., were Shanker Lal Agrawal (Chairman of Shanker Group), Akhil Gupta (Executive Director), Sahli Agrawal (Managing Director), and Raju Bhetwaal (Senior Vice President).

To support its entry into Nepal’s competitive EV market, Jagdamba Motors is rapidly expanding its dealer network. Three dealerships are already operational, with plans to increase this number to 12 by the end of 2025. The distributor is also focused on establishing a reliable charging infrastructure and service center network to reduce consumer anxiety about adopting EVs.

Proton’s move aligns seamlessly with Nepal’s Green Mobility Vision, which has witnessed a dramatic rise in EV penetration—from just 6% of the total industry volume (TIV) in 2021 to an impressive 73% in 2024. The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) has also pledged to install over 300 charging stations nationwide within the next three years, a step that will undoubtedly fuel further growth in EV adoption.

The Proton e.MAS 7, based on the Global Modular Architecture platform, is offered in both Prime and Premium variants in Nepal. Customers can choose from six stunning colors: Platinum Silver, Turquoise Green, Slate Grey, Quarts Rose, Moyu Black, and Lithium White. The vehicle boasts cutting-edge features, including a 12-in-1 intelligent electric propulsion system, Cell-to-Body battery architecture, and the advanced Aegis Short-Blade Battery.

Before the official launch, Proton conducted months of meticulous planning, including a nationwide tour of the e.MAS 7 from February 21st to March 14th. The tour, which covered all seven provinces and made 18 stops, allowed the Nepalese community to experience the EV firsthand. Adorned with a Nepalese-themed wrap featuring national symbols and Himalayan scenery, the e.MAS 7 captured the public’s imagination.

The tour’s impact was further amplified through social media campaigns, resulting in over 27,000 followers on Proton’s pages by early March. The brand’s strong community engagement efforts have undoubtedly boosted awareness and excitement around the new model.

With its entry into Nepal, Proton not only aims to capture the local market but also to strengthen its global presence. Following the shipment of 50 units to Nepal in February, a limited number of e.MAS 7 vehicles have also been sent to Singapore and Trinidad & Tobago for evaluation. In Malaysia, the model has already garnered over 4,500 bookings and delivered more than 1,000 units, reflecting a growing enthusiasm for EVs.

As Proton continues to expand its global footprint, the introduction of the e.MAS 7 in Nepal sets the stage for the brand’s ongoing journey toward sustainable and forward-thinking automotive solutions.