Following the success of its first completely electric (EV) model, the Proton eMAS 7 (stylised as e.MAS 7), the national automaker is getting all its chips in a row and is expected to debut its next EV shortly. This next EV, which was rumoured to be named the Proton eMAS 5, is now verified to be based on the Geely Xingyuan.
China’s media recently reported on the upcoming eMAS model, citing Geely Holding Group President and Geely Auto Group Chairman An Conghui. In an attempt to capitalise on the success of the eMAS 7, he said, the Geely Xingyuan will be introduced in Malaysia this year.
The Global Intelligent New Energy Architecture (GEA) serves as the foundation for both the Xingyuan and the Geely Galaxy E5, a car that will knock horns with the BYD Dolphin. The Xingyuan has a wheelbase of 2,650 mm and dimensions of 4,135 mm in length, 1,805 mm in width, and 1,570 mm in height. Meanwhile, in contrast, the Dolphin measures 4,125 mm in length, 1,770 mm in width, 1,570 mm in height, and 2,700 mm between the front and rear axles.
An electric motor with either 78 or 114 horsepower will provide power. Boasting a range of 310 to 410 km, battery options range from 30.12 kWh to 40.16 kWh packs with 135 kph as its top speed to save charge.
Also, just before Christmas last year, Proton launched the eMAS 5’s big brother — the eMAS 7 (also known as the e.MAS 7), meaning that it has formally joined the electric vehicle (EV) industry. Priced at RM109,800 on the road without insurance, Malaysia’s first domestic EV comes in two models: Prime and Premium.
The eMAS 7 is the first of three models that Proton will soon introduce under the new eMAS sub-brand, which is focused on electrified cars.
With its subtle appearance and grille-less front bumper, the eMAS 7 embraces the minimalist design style that is common among today’s EVs. The interior also follows same basic style, with a 15.4-inch infotainment touchscreen in the middle.
CARLIST THOUGHTS
Based on Geely’s EV platforms the eMAS 5 and the eMAS 7 will lead Malaysia’s Proton into the 21st century with competitive electric vehicles. The exterior is well-proportioned and as stylish as any EVs we’ve seen coming out of Geely or Proton. And its range at 310-410km is competitive too.