Proton has taken another significant step in advancing Malaysia’s electrified mobility industry with the start of local assembly (CKD) for the Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV at its dedicated EV manufacturing facility in the Automotive High Tech Valley (AHTV), Tanjung Malim. The milestone underscores the company’s commitment to strengthening the country’s automotive supply chain while reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a regional hub for next-generation vehicle manufacturing.

The rollout ceremony was officiated by Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani and Deputy Minister Sim Tze Tzin, alongside senior government officials and Proton’s leadership team. During the visit, guests toured key sections of the EV production plant, gaining a first-hand look at major assembly operations, including battery pack installation and final vehicle assembly.

The Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV has already established itself as Malaysia’s best-selling plug-in hybrid vehicle, recording more than 4,500 registrations year-to-date while attracting over 11,000 bookings since its introduction. Its popularity reflects growing consumer confidence in plug-in hybrid technology, offering the benefits of electric driving without sacrificing long-distance usability.

The move to local production marks a major milestone in Proton’s localisation strategy. Approximately 30 per cent of the vehicle’s components are now sourced from Malaysian suppliers, helping expand domestic manufacturing capabilities while creating greater opportunities for local businesses within the automotive value chain. The initiative also supports employment growth at the EV plant, which currently has a workforce of 391 employees.

With the Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV now joining the locally assembled Proton e.MAS range, every model under the brand is being produced in Malaysia. This achievement lays the groundwork for higher levels of component localisation and continued investment in advanced manufacturing technologies within AHTV.

To accommodate future demand, Proton previously announced a RM37 million expansion of its New Energy Vehicle (NEV) assembly facility. The project, introduced less than a year after the plant began operations, will increase annual production capacity to 42,000 units, supporting the company’s long-term electrification plans.

According to PRO-NET Chief Executive Officer Zhang Qiang, the commencement of CKD production represents more than just a manufacturing milestone. It reflects the company’s ongoing investment in local capabilities, collaboration with Malaysian suppliers and commitment to delivering greater value to customers while building a stronger foundation for the country’s electrified mobility ecosystem.

Coinciding with the local assembly launch, Proton also introduced updates to the e.MAS 7 PHEV Premium and Premium Plus variants. Both models now feature front massage seats, adding another level of comfort for drivers and passengers. The enhancement forms part of Proton’s ongoing efforts to refine its products based on customer feedback and evolving market expectations.

Designed to bridge the gap between conventional and fully electric vehicles, the Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV combines a high-efficiency petrol engine with an electric motor through Proton’s EM-i Advanced Hybrid Technology. The powertrain delivers a claimed fuel consumption of just 4.3 litres per 100km while offering up to 170km of pure electric driving range. Combined, the vehicle is capable of travelling up to 1,065km on a full tank and battery charge.

Additional features including DC fast charging capability, advanced connectivity, premium cabin appointments and a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) further position the e.MAS 7 PHEV as a practical electrified option for both urban commuting and long-distance travel.

As Malaysia accelerates its transition towards cleaner mobility, the local assembly of the Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV highlights Proton’s broader strategy of expanding domestic manufacturing expertise, supporting local suppliers and making electrified vehicles more accessible to Malaysian consumers.