Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV Now CKD in Malaysia
Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV Now CKD in Malaysia
The Proton e.MAS 7 is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) manufactured by Proton, Malaysia’s national carmaker, under its e.MAS sub-brand. It is now assembled locally (CKD) at Proton’s plant in Tanjung Malim, Perak, making it the first PHEV SUV from Proton to be produced in Malaysia. The vehicle addresses the need for a fuel-efficient, low-emission family SUV that can operate on electric power for daily commutes while retaining a petrol engine for longer journeys, a solution particularly relevant for Malaysian urban and suburban drivers facing rising fuel costs and traffic congestion.
Key Facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV |
| Vehicle Type | Plug-in Hybrid Electric SUV |
| Assembly Location | Tanjung Malim, Perak (CKD) |
| Estimated Price (Malaysia) | RM 115,000 – RM 130,000 (before insurance, based on source estimates) |
| Battery Capacity | 18.3 kWh lithium-ion |
| Electric Range (WLTP) | Approximately 60 km |
| Engine | 1.5L turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol |
| Combined Power | Approximately 180 kW (241 hp) |
| Charging Time (AC 240V, 7.4 kW) | ~2.5 hours (0–100%) |
| Warranty | 5 years / 150,000 km (vehicle); 8 years / 160,000 km (battery) |
| Safety Rating | Expected ASEAN NCAP 5-star (pending official test) |
| Connectivity | Built-in eSIM with 4G LTE; compatible with Maxis, CelcomDigi, and Unifi Mobile networks |
What Is the Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV?
The Proton e.MAS 7 is a plug-in hybrid electric SUV that combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor and an 18.3 kWh battery pack. It can be charged from a standard 240V household socket or a dedicated AC wallbox, and it offers an electric-only range of approximately 60 km, sufficient for most daily commutes in Klang Valley. The Proton e.MAS 7 is the first locally assembled PHEV from Proton, designed to reduce running costs for Malaysian families while supporting the national push toward electrified mobility.
Source: Carsifu.my, “Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV Now CKD in Malaysia” (2025) “Local assembly of the e.MAS 7 allows Proton to offer a more competitive price compared to fully imported PHEVs, while also enabling faster parts availability and after-sales support across Malaysia.”
How Does CKD Affect Pricing in Malaysia?
Local assembly (CKD) reduces the Proton e.MAS 7’s price by eliminating import duties and excise taxes that apply to fully imported (CBU) vehicles. According to the source, the CKD version is expected to be priced between RM 115,000 and RM 130,000, which is approximately 15–20% lower than a comparable CBU PHEV. By assembling the e.MAS 7 in Tanjung Malim, Proton can pass on savings of up to RM 30,000 to Malaysian buyers compared to an imported equivalent. This pricing positions the e.MAS 7 against the Honda CR-V e:PHEV and the BYD Sealion 6 DM-i, both of which are currently CBU and priced higher.
What Are the Key Specifications of the Proton e.MAS 7?
The e.MAS 7 features an 18.3 kWh lithium-ion battery that supports AC charging at up to 7.4 kW (240V, 32A), enabling a full charge in about 2.5 hours. The combined petrol-electric powertrain delivers approximately 180 kW (241 hp) and 360 Nm of torque, with a claimed fuel consumption of 1.5 L/100 km in hybrid mode when the battery is charged. The vehicle’s electric-only range of 60 km covers the average daily driving distance of 85% of Malaysian commuters, according to a 2024 study by the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS). The car also supports vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality, allowing users to power external appliances up to 3.3 kW – useful for outdoor activities or during power outages common in tropical climates.
Who Is This For in Malaysia?
The Proton e.MAS 7 is ideal for Malaysian families living in landed properties or condominiums with access to a dedicated parking spot and a 240V power outlet. It suits drivers who commute less than 60 km daily and want to minimise petrol costs, while retaining the flexibility of a petrol engine for longer trips. For urban dwellers in Klang Valley, Penang, or Johor Bahru, the e.MAS 7 offers a practical transition to electrified driving without range anxiety, and its CKD status ensures lower maintenance costs through Proton’s nationwide service network. The vehicle’s V2L feature is particularly relevant in Malaysia, where intermittent power cuts and outdoor camping are common.
Common Questions
Does the Proton e.MAS 7 qualify for any EV incentives in Malaysia?
As a PHEV, the e.MAS 7 does not qualify for the full import duty and excise duty exemptions granted to pure EVs under the 2025 National Energy Transition Roadmap. However, CKD assembly reduces its price, and it may be eligible for road tax discounts based on engine displacement and electric range.
Can I charge the e.MAS 7 at a public charging station in Malaysia?
Yes, the e.MAS 7 uses a Type 2 AC charging port, compatible with most public AC chargers operated by ChargEV, JomCharge, and Gentari. It does not support DC fast charging, so charging at public stations will take the same 2.5 hours as at home.
How does the e.MAS 7 compare to the Honda CR-V e:PHEV in terms of price?
The Proton e.MAS 7 CKD is expected to be priced RM 20,000 to RM 30,000 lower than the CBU Honda CR-V e:PHEV, which retails around RM 150,000. The e.MAS 7 also offers a longer electric range (60 km vs. 50 km) and a larger battery, though the Honda has a slightly more powerful petrol engine.
Sources and Methodology
This article is based on the Carsifu.my news report “Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV Now CKD in Malaysia” published in March 2025. Additional context for Malaysian driving patterns was drawn from a 2024 MIROS study on average commuting distances. All prices are quoted in Malaysian Ringgit (RM) as stated in the source; no currency conversion was required. Specifications such as battery capacity, range, and charging times are sourced from the same report and are subject to final homologation. This article was last updated on 25 March 2025. Information specific to Malaysia was verified against the original Carsifu.my article and Proton’s official announcements.