Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV now assembled locally

A long time ago, Henry Ford realised that in order to meet rising demand for his cars globally, they had to be built in the markets where they were sold. More cars could be delivered in a shorter time, benefitting customers.

It’s an approach that the auto industry has used for over 100 years, spreading automobile manufacturing globally. Furthermore, it has also helped in the development of automotive industries in many countries, including Malaysia.

Full range now assembled locally
PROTON is also using this approach with its Proton e.MAS models. Initially made in China and exported to Malaysia, all three models are now made in Malaysia at its own New Energy Vehicle (NEV) factory in the Automotive Hi-Tech Valley in Tg. Malim, Perak.

The dedicated NEV factory within the PROTON manufacturing complex opened in September last year with an initial capacity of 20,000 units a year. As demand for all the models has been consistently high – making the Proton e.MAS brand the top-selling NEV brand – a further RM37 million investment has been allocated to quickly raise the initial production capacity of 20,000 units/year to 42,000 units/year.

The latest addition to the assembly line is the e.MAS 7 PHEV, the best-selling plug-in hybrid electric vehicle in Malaysia, with over 4,500 units delivered, while bookings have surpassed 11,000 units since its launch in February 2026.

Local sourcing of components
With local production of the NEVs, there is greater local component sourcing, benefitting the domestic automotive industry. 30% of the components in the e.MAS 7 PHEV are already sourced from local companies, with more to come. At the same time, local workforce capabilities in electrified vehicles are increasing in preparation for the shift towards NEVs.

“Today’s roll-out represents much more than the start of local production. It reflects PRO-NET’s long-term commitment to investing in Malaysia’s capabilities, working closely with local partners and continuously creating greater value for our customers,” said Zhang Qiang, Chief Executive Officer of PRO-NET, PROTON’s subsidiary focussed on NEVs.

“As we deepen our localisation efforts, we remain focused on building a stronger foundation for the future of electrified mobility in Malaysia,” he added.

Massage seat added
With the start of local assembly of the e.MAS 7 PHEV, PRO-NET also introduces updates for the Premium and Premium Plus variants which will now come with front massage seat functions as standard equipment.

Other technical specifications remain unchanged for the PHEV SUV which has been proven to provide up to 170 kms of pure electric driving range and a range of up to 1,065 kms with a full tank and fully charged battery. Prices are unchanged for the three versions, currently ranging from RM105,800 to RM125,800.

Find a Proton e.MAS showroom in Malaysia

Why the Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV Prime Is the Smart Choice for Modern Mobility