Malaysian automaker Proton on Thursday inaugurated its first electric vehicle (EV) assembly plant, signaling a step forward in the country’s effort to expand its EV industry.
The facility, located in the Automotive High-Tech Valley in western Perak, covers 5.57 acres and was built at a total cost of RM82 million. The first phase of the plant, costing RM47 million, has an annual production capacity of 20,000 units and could be scaled up to 45,000 units, the company said. The e.MAS 7, Proton’s first EV, will be the first model produced, followed by the entry-level e.MAS 5.
Proton is majority-owned by Malaysian conglomerate DRB HICOM, with China’s Zhejiang Geely Holding Group holding a 49.9% stake. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the plant reflects growing collaboration between Malaysia and China and encouraged Geely to increase its investments in the country’s automotive hub. “We want … Geely to use this opportunity to establish not only a factory to produce cars but also a center of excellence for training and education,” he said.
Proton Chief Executive Officer Dr. Li Chunrong described the plant as a milestone for the company and the Malaysian automotive sector. “This facility, built with advanced technology and a focus on scalability, will be the backbone of our commitment to producing world-class electric vehicles. The Proton e.MAS 7, which has already been embraced by Malaysian consumers, is just the beginning of our journey towards a sustainable future,” he said.
The Malaysian government aims to position the country as a regional hub for electric vehicles, targeting EVs and hybrids to account for 20% of all new car sales by 2030.