Pro-NET, Proton’s EV arm, has opened bookings for the e.MAS 5 electric car.
It announced an estimated price range of RM60,000–RM80,000 for the car, pitting it against Perodua’s own EV, which is also similarly priced.
Both models would be launched by the end of this year and are vying to lay claim to being Malaysia’s most affordable electric car. Oh wait, Proton is already staklng its claim to that (Perodua, hurry up!).
A RM99 booking secures early-bird perks at any of the 42 e.MAS dealerships nationwide or via the brand’s website.
Pro-NET sugar-coated its offer by promising those who buy its car would get a free limited-edition e.MAS Touch ’n Go NFC card preloaded with RM100 and a RM500 rebate on the booking fee, subject to terms.
The e.MAS 5 is a compact, rear-wheel-drive electric hatchback with a claimed range of up to 325km, aimed at urban users and first-time EV buyers. It is based on the Geely Xingyuan in China; the model is sold overseas as the EX2, and of course as the e.MAS 5 in Malaysia.
The model supports DC fast charging and home-charging solutions, and integrates ATLAS OS with a live charging map.
Equipment highlighted by the company includes active safety systems, 360-degree cameras, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice commands in English and Malay, and a rear multi-link suspension. Final specifications and certified ranges are still being worked out.
Zhang said the e.MAS 5 is intended to “fit easily into daily lives” with a blend of style, practicality and efficiency. Below are some images of what the Xingyuan looks like inside and out.
Prospective buyers, however, should wait for Perodua to release its own EV before putting money down on their choice of car.
Perodua has already said its first EV, an SUV, would also arrive by the end of the year, placing a direct price-and-spec comparison only weeks away.
Those in the market for national cars would do well to wait for both models to be formally detailed and independently tested.
That way, they would get clearer guidance on real-world range, charging performance, safety equipment by variant, and ownership costs.
Bodystyle preference – hatchback or SUV – would also factor into the buying decision.
