Proton’s collaborative partnership with Zhejiang Geely Holding Ltd (Geely) has continued to grow with the two automakers increasing the areas of collaboration. From adapting some of Geely’s models to be sold under the Proton brand, the partnership has seen co-development of the Geely EX-5/Proton e.MAS 7 which is Proton’s first EV.
In order for collaborative work to be more effectively conducted, Proton established a Research and Development Centre (PRDC) in Hangzhou Bay, China where Geely also has its Research Institute complex as well as other significant operations. With this collaboration, PRDC is able to utilise Geely’s battery labs, powertrain test benches, and smart vehicle development facilities.
Leveraging global expertise
PRDC employs a structured new product development system (NPDS) that covers all critical phases from initial product strategy and definition to design freeze to final data judgement (FDJ). With access to cutting-edge platforms and tools has accelerated Proton’s model development.
“Over the past 3 months, I have seen how PRDC is contributing to the development of PROTON’s next generation of intelligent vehicles through the integration of advanced vehicle Electrical and Electronics technologies,” noted Senior Engineer Wan Fatin Nur Amira binti Wan Rusli, one of the Malaysians assigned to the PRDC.
At PRDC, the Malaysian team works on various areas of development, including enhancing the driving characteristics of upcoming models. “Substantial progress is made in refining chassis and suspension settings for Malaysian roads, improving braking, optimizing cabin noise, reducing vibration and harshness, and enhancing fuel efficiency through advanced testing,” explained Muhammad Hafiz bin Zabidi, Lead Engineer in Engineering Performance. To ensure that Proton’s models are competitive in all aspects and offer a better driving experience, the engineers at the R&D centre also benchmark prototypes against competitors.
Cross-functional collaboration
Over the past year, Omar Farhan Bin Omar, Senior Engineer at PRDC, and his team have been involved in engineering coordination, timeline execution, and cross-functional collaboration to advance their project toward production readiness. They achieved key milestones by leading validation efforts for thermal management, charging efficiency and regenerative braking.
“Through these efforts, we are on track to introduce a reliable, high-value EV tailored to ASEAN consumers,” Omar Farhan said, perhaps referring to the next EV model known to be the e.MAS 5.
Sharing data
“Facilities such as the proving grounds and climatic chambers available at PDRC are important for Proton’s extensive testing processes,” said Zulkifli bin Fadzlullah, Senior Engineer in Testing & Development. “We are in daily contact with Proton R&D in Malaysia, sharing technical knowledge and testing data that will help improve testing capabilities in Malaysia. This ensures Proton can develop more competitive and high-quality vehicles in the future.”
Conversely, by tapping into Proton’s extensive experience in developing vehicles tailored for the Malaysian and ASEAN markets, Geely is better able to understand local customer preferences, road conditions and government regulations. Proton also acts as a strategic partner for Geely in technology localization and expanding its presence within the ASEAN region.
Strengthening independent innovation
Looking ahead, PRDC is poised to play a crucial role in shaping PROTON’s future, particularly in E&E architecture and EV development, strengthening the automaker’s independent innovation in Malaysia.
“This collaboration serves as a crucial bridge to Proton’s product development capabilities by providing engineers access to advanced facilities and empowering them without shifting core R&D operations away from Malaysia. We’re planning to double our workforce by the end of the year as part of our expansion efforts, which will significantly boost our R&D capabilities as a group,” said Mohd. Haizam bin Ghazali, Head of R&D in Engineering & Technical.
