After the successful launch of the Proton eMAS 7, Proton is riding the momentum and has started previewing its next EV — the Proton eMAS 5. This model made its first appearance at this year’s Malaysian Autoshow, where it was displayed with heavily tinted windows, preventing anyone from seeing the interior. Recently, however, Proton invited members of the media to its styling center, giving us the chance to get up close and personal with the upcoming eMAS 5. While these are still pre-production units, the overall design appears to be final.
The eMAS 5 is built on the Global Modular Architecture platform, which allows Proton to develop not only BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles) but also PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles) if they choose to. Just like the unit showcased at the Autoshow, the eMAS 5 we were allowed to photograph still wore camouflage. However, as part of Proton’s eMAS 5 roadshow, the car now sports a fresh camo design. From what we can see, the styling is nearly identical to the version displayed earlier this year. 
According to Proton, the eMAS 5 will be offered in a single-motor configuration. It is expected to feature a 40.16 kWh battery, delivering an estimated range of 325 km. DC fast charging will be capped at 71 kW, enabling a 30–80% charge in just 21 minutes. AC charging, however, will be limited to 6.6 kW, which is relatively slow. The single electric motor produces 85 kW of power and 150 Nm of torque. Proton claims a 0–100 km/h time of just 3.9 seconds, though we’ll have to test it ourselves to confirm that figure. 
Inside, the eMAS 5 offers a host of modern features for comfort and convenience. The dashboard follows the familiar Chinese EV design trend, with two large displays taking center stage and minimal physical buttons. Drivers get an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.6-inch infotainment screen, which will support Android Auto and Apple CarPlay at launch. The infotainment system is paired with a 6-speaker audio setup. Leather seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel give the cabin a more premium feel, while Proton says there are 32 intelligent storage compartments throughout the vehicle. Cargo space includes a 375-litre rear boot and a 70-litre frunk, providing versatile storage options. 
In terms of safety, the eMAS 5 will be equipped with a full suite of modern ADAS features. These include Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR), Front Vehicle Departure Alert (FVD), Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Lane Change Assist (LCA), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Rear Collision Warning (RCW), and Door Opening Warning (DOW). 
From what we’ve seen so far, the eMAS 5 seems likely to appeal to a wide audience, especially families. It looks like an ideal option for parents needing a practical and efficient car for school runs and grocery trips. With an expected price of around RM80,000, it offers one of the most affordable entry points into EV ownership in Malaysia. I believe Proton is aiming to outpace other budget EVs in the market, positioning itself to capture a significant share of the growing electric segment. From my perspective, Proton’s EV strategy is on the right track. Stay tuned for the official launch in the fourth quarter of 2025. 
