Proton has officially launched its first-ever electric vehicle, the e.MAS 7, a compact SUV that aims to make a bold statement but falls slightly short of expectations. The e.MAS 7’s design borrows heavily from the Porsche playbook, but beneath its stylish exterior and promotional fanfare lies a rebadged Geely Galaxy E5. This venture into badge engineering doesn’t revolutionize the EV market, but the vehicle manages to exude a contemporary charm.
Proton ">
The e.MAS 7 measures 4,615 mm in length and has a wheelbase of 2,750 mm, offering compact SUV proportions. For those familiar with the Geely Galaxy, the e.MAS 7 might feel like déjà vu. The only noticeable distinctions are the Proton emblem on the hood and the absence of Geely’s illuminated grille. To provide some customization, Proton offers four distinct color options—Platinum Silver, Turquoise Green, Slate Grey, and Lithium White—with an Indigo Blue interior adding a touch of sophistication.
Underneath, the e.MAS 7 is identical to its Geely counterpart, utilizing the same Global Intelligent New Energy Architecture (GEA). It is equipped with a single front-mounted electric motor that delivers 215 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque. This setup allows the e.MAS 7 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds. While this performance makes it the fastest Proton vehicle to date, it remains modest in comparison to more performance-oriented EVs.
The SUV is available with two battery options. The smaller 49.52 kWh battery provides a WLTP range of 345 km, while the larger 60.22 kWh battery extends the range to 410 km. Proton claims that after 921 full charging cycles—equivalent to approximately 400,000 km—the battery retains 90.5% of its health. This durability metric is notable, especially for buyers concerned about long-term battery reliability.
One of the key selling points of the e.MAS 7 is its affordability. Prices range from $24,400 to $27,500, significantly undercutting its main competitor, the BYD Atto 3, which starts at $33,259. Given that the BYD Atto 3 currently holds the title of Malaysia’s best-selling EV, Proton is banking on this price difference to attract budget-conscious consumers.
the Proton e.MAS 7 is a well-priced and visually appealing entry into the EV market. While its reliance on the Geely Galaxy E5’s foundation means it doesn’t introduce groundbreaking innovation, its competitive pricing could make it an appealing choice for Malaysian buyers exploring affordable electric mobility.