Proton launches the e.MAS 5, Malaysia’s first mass-market electric car aimed squarely at mainstream buyers, and a model poised to set the pace for affordable EVs in 2026.
Bookings have already surpassed 5,000 since Oct 4.
Unveiled at Sentul Depot, Kuala Lumpur, today after its Asean Summit preview two days earlier, the B-segment hatch is priced from RM59,800 (Prime) and RM72,800 (Premium) in Peninsular Malaysia, with Sabah/Sarawak prices at RM62,800 and RM75,800 respectively.
Early customers get a special launch rebate of RM3,000, lowering the prices to RM56,800 (Prime) and RM69,800 (Premium).
The RM3,000 rebate is part of a package of rebates worth up to RM8,000 for early customers offered by distributor Pro-NET.
The other rebates include:
— Power Xchange: RM2,000 rebate when you deregister a non-roadworthy vehicle (valid until Dec 31, 2025)
— Power Online: 5 years of unlimited Internet data worth RM1,800
— Power Financing: 5-year loan at 1.98% interest from Proton Commerce, worth RM1,700 (valid until Jan 31, 2026)
— Power Home: Complimentary 7kW home charger worth RM1,500
— Power Trade-In: Exclusive trade-in rebate worth RM1,000 (valid until Jan 31, 2026)
Positioned as the brand’s entry EV, the e.MAS 5 pairs everyday practicality with tech that feels a class up.
Range is up to 325km on the WLTP cycle, supported by DC fast charging that takes the battery from 30% to 80% in about 21 minutes — useful for commuters and first-time EV owners wary of long charging stops.
An 85kW rear motor (150Nm) delivers brisk city response and a tight 4.95m turning radius makes tight car parks less of a chore.
Inside, Proton leans into simplicity and space.
A 14.6-inch full-HD central display pairs with an 8.8-inch driver’s panel, both running Atlas Auto with voice control in English or Bahasa Melayu.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and the Proton e.MAS app lets owners check battery state or pre-cool the cabin remotely.
Family-friendly touches include 32 storage cubbies, a 70-litre frunk, and 375 litres of boot space expanding to 1,320 litres with seats folded.
Safety kit targets big-car reassurance.
The body employs a Star Armor cage, the CATL LFP battery carries layered thermal protection, and there are 12 driver-assistance features including Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning and Blind Spot Detection.
Warranty coverage is generous for the price point: six years with unlimited mileage for the vehicle, plus eight years/160,000km for the high-voltage battery and components.
For Proton e.MAS, having Geely Auto as a strategic partner has done wonders for its fortunes, and it wouldn’t be where it is today without the auto giant, just as in the case of Volvo, which is also owned by the Chinese company.
Geely acquired a 49.9% stake in Proton in 2017. Since then, Geely has pushed Proton to fast-track the introduction of new models, which are basically based on Geely’s own car platforms, but rebadged and adapted with specifications unique to the Malaysian market. Examples are the X70, X50, X90, e.MAS 7 and now e.MAS 5.
The e.MAS 5 originated from Geely Xingyuan, tailored for the Malaysian market with unique Proton-specific features such as the Atlas 3.0 infotainment system.
The e.MAS 7 has led national EV sales for nine consecutive months, giving the new e.MAS 5 a ready-made ecosystem and dealer support as the brand scales up supply.
The e.MAS 5 is truly a groundbreaking EV, with pricing under RM60,000, making EV ownership even more accessible.
Bundled with rapid charging capability, localised software and features buyers actually use, the e.MAS 5 sets a new reference for attainable electrification — one likely to shape rivals’ strategies and consumer expectations across 2026.
Here’s looking at Perodua’s upcoming EV and indirectly the smaller TQ Wuling Bingo, both of which are set to be released by the end of this year.
As an aside, Geely would be selling the Xingyuan in Thailand by the end of the year, where it would be rebadged as the EX2. Thailand would be the first right-hand drive market for the EX2, which would be offered there in two versions as well with a single electric motor.
