Malaysian automaker Proton launched its first electric vehicle, the e.MAS 7, on Monday, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to increase the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles while strengthening its position in the global supply chain. The move also signals Proton’s ambition to enter the competitive EV market alongside global brands.
Proton is majority owned by Malaysian conglomerate DRB HICOM, with the remaining 49.9% stake held by Chinese automaker Zhejiang Geely Holding Group. The launch of the e.MAS 7 comes after similar entries by international automakers, including BYD, Tesla, and Stellantis, who are expanding their presence in Malaysia in partnership with local companies.
The e.MAS 7 will be available in two models: the basic version priced at 109,800 Malaysian ringgit ($24,674) and the premium version at 123,800 ringgit. Malaysia aims for electric vehicles and hybrids to account for 20% of new car sales by 2030. In the first half of this year, Malaysia reported a 112% increase in battery electric vehicle sales.
At the launch event, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed hope that the e.MAS 7 could eventually be manufactured locally, encouraging more Malaysian firms to participate in the production of electric vehicles.
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