Category Archives: EV

Proton e.MAS 7 debuts in Singapore with prices starting from RM565k

After more than a decade, Proton has made its long-awaited return to the neighboring market of Singapore with the launch of the Proton e.MAS 7 electric vehicle (EV), managed by the new distributor VINCAR Group.

This best-selling EV in Malaysia was officially launched at The Car Expo 2025, which recently took place.

According to Proton’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Li Chunrong, “The launch of the Proton e.MAS 7 in Singapore marks an important step in expanding our international market, as well as our commitment to introducing high-quality and advanced EVs to this region.”

“We are confident that the e.MAS 7, with its attractive features and suitability for urban environments, will receive a positive response from Singaporean drivers who are increasingly prioritizing electric mobility,” he explained.

Proton’s return to Singapore aligns with the country’s rapid transition towards green mobility.

The Singapore EV market is reported to have seen a consistent increase from 12 percent in 2022 to 18 percent in 2023, with a target of reaching 55 percent by 2027.

The Singaporean government also aims to provide up to 12,000 EV charging points in 2,000 Housing and Development Board (HDB) parking areas by the end of this year, and 60,000 by 2030.

In Singapore, the Proton e.MAS 7 is offered in six attractive color options, including the new color Moyu Black.

Based on the supplied images, the Proton e.MAS 7 for this market resembles the Prime variant sold in Malaysia, featuring 18-inch wheels (compared to the 19-inch wheels for the Premium variant).

Other features include a 15.4-inch touchscreen, Flyme Auto audio system, and full LED lighting.

The Proton e.MAS 7 is priced starting from S$173,988 (approximately RM565,429).

Jetour X20e, a small EV suitable for the Malaysian market?

At the Shanghai Hongqiao Hotel, another electric SUV known as the X20e made an appearance next to a segment B electric SUV.

The design of the X20e certainly reminds us of the smart brand’s EV, the #1, particularly in the front and rear light designs; most notably, the finishing on both C-pillars stands out.

Interestingly, the showcased X20e is a right-hand drive (RHD) version.

Does this mean that Jetour is ready to market this model for right-hand drive countries?

Since the X20e is a very new model, there are no specifications available to report at this time, and it is not listed on any official Jetour websites.

However, based on the exhibited model, the X20e is equipped with 15-inch alloy wheels, a pastel green color, hidden door handles, and a floating roof design inspired by the smart #1.

Inside, the cabin features two separate display screens for the driver and the center console, physical control buttons for the air conditioning system, a three-tone dashboard finish, and relatively comfortable fabric-wrapped seats.

With very few small EVs currently available in the Malaysian market, could the X20e be a suitable candidate for urban driving?

Jetour showcases B-segment electric SUV in Shanghai, set to use new name

In addition to family SUVs like the Dashing and VT9, Jetour has also showcased a B-segment electric SUV with a name that is quite similar to another popular B-segment SUV in Malaysia.

However, according to information from Jetour Malaysia, this SUV will be known by a new name—similar to the approach used for the VT9 model.

This electric SUV has already appeared in the Indonesian market a few months ago.

According to specifications, it is powered by a single electric motor producing 164 hp and 280 Nm of torque, paired with a 53.6 kWh battery pack, providing a driving range of 401 km.

In terms of dimensions, this SUV measures 4,100 mm in length, 1,831 mm in width, and 1,653 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,705 mm.

Key exterior features of this electric SUV include a charging port at the front, 18-inch rims, and front and rear LED lights.

This right-hand drive EV also comes equipped with interior features such as a digital cluster screen, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, leather-wrapped seats, a 360-degree camera, a sunroof, and a cargo space of 368 liters.

As teased during the launch of the Dashing recently, this electric SUV is also expected to enter the Malaysian market in the near future, likely under a new name rather than the official name currently in use.

Will this Jetour electric SUV become the best alternative to other SUVs such as the BYD Atto 3, Chery Omoda E5, Honda e:N1, and smart #1?

Proton e.MAS 7 to serve as patrol car at Northport

Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (Pro-Net) recently delivered three Proton e.MAS 7 electric SUVs to the management of Northport (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd for use by its auxiliary police force.

This achievement marks Northport as the first port operator in the country to utilize the e.MAS 7 in its fleet management, reinforcing its commitment to corporate ESG initiatives and sustainable transportation solutions.

The use of the Proton e.MAS 7 electric SUV will not only reduce fuel consumption, carbon emissions, and noise pollution, but its quiet and smooth ride will also make patrol operations more comfortable and reduce officer fatigue.

According to Zhang Qiang, CEO of Pro-Net, “We are delighted to be working with Northport, an organization that exemplifies sustainability.”

“Its use in Northport’s operations proves that electric vehicles are not just a vision of the future, but a solution that can be adopted today.”

Fakhrul Azhar Tajudin, CEO of Northport, said, “At Northport, we are committed to practicing a sustainable approach and supporting clean energy solutions.”

“As a port that is proud of its Malaysian identity, the selection of the Proton brand also reflects our support for local innovation and national industry development. With its balance of performance, safety and technology, the Proton e.MAS 7 is a suitable choice to meet the demanding operational needs of the port.”

Stellantis invests RM24 million in CKD plan for Leapmotor EV in Gurun

Leapmotor and Stellantis recently announced an initiative for a local assembly program (CKD) for Leapmotor vehicles in Malaysia.

With an initial investment of 5 million euros (RM24 million), this initiative is set to transform Stellantis’ plant in Gurun, Kedah, into a primary assembly hub for the ASEAN region.

This strategic move positions Malaysia further ahead in the industrialization of electric vehicles (EVs) in the region.

Additionally, by introducing advanced and accessible Leapmotor EVs, Stellantis aims to bring high-tech mobility solutions to Southeast Asia.

According to Stellantis India & Asia Pacific Chief Operating Officer Ashwani Muppasani, the Gurun plant was selected due to its strategic location and mature infrastructure, which will enable more efficient production and smooth distribution to other ASEAN markets.

This aligns with Stellantis’s framework of “Built in ASEAN for ASEAN.”

Meanwhile, Stellantis ASEAN Managing Director Isaac Yeo stated that the local assembly program for the Leapmotor model will commence at the end of 2025, starting with the Leapmotor C10 EV.

In addition to the Leapmotor C10 EV, Leapmotor also plans to expand the CKD program to include other models such as the C10 REEV and the compact SUV B10.

Zeekr 007 GT – shooting brake EV with a driving range of 825 km

While other manufacturers have begun to pull the handbrake, Zeekr is ready to reignite the sporty wagon segment with the introduction of the 007 GT model.

The Zeekr 007 GT (also known as the Zeekr 7 GT in global markets) is built on the Zeekr 007 electric sedan and is the second shooting brake model after the Zeekr 001.

It features dimensions of 4,864 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width, a height of up to 1,445 mm, and a wheelbase approaching 3 meters (2,925 mm).

In comparison, the Zeekr 001 measures 4,977 mm in length, 1,999 mm in width, and has a wheelbase of 3,005 mm.

The Zeekr 007 GT is available in a single motor variant that produces 416 hp and 440 Nm of torque, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds.

Meanwhile, the dual motor variant generates power up to 637 hp and 710 Nm, with a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time of 3.8 seconds.

The Zeekr 007 GT utilizes a 75 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, offering a range of 650 km (CLTC data), while the 100 kWh nickel cobalt manganese (NCM) battery provides a driving range of 825 km.

The LFP battery supports the fastest charging in the world, where charging from 10% to 80% can be completed in just 10.5 minutes!

Inside the cabin, there is a 15.4-inch touchscreen, a digital cluster screen, and an augmented reality (AR) head-up display for driver use.

The center console features a cluster of function buttons located at the bottom of the screen, storage space, cup holders, and two wireless device charging slots.

The front seats have 14-way adjustability with heating, cooling, massage functions, and Nappa leather upholstery.

In terms of practicality, the Zeekr 007 GT cabin offers up to 36 storage spaces, an optional hidden refrigerator, and a cargo space of 1,737 liters when the second-row seats are folded.

Not stopping there, the Zeekr 007 GT also features an intelligent driving system, thanks to 31 sensors including LiDAR, 11 cameras, and 3 radar units that enable it to avoid obstacles at high speeds and stop automatically under certain conditions.

In China, the Zeekr 007 GT is priced starting from RMB 202,900 (approximately RM 121,876).

Batik Air offers private terminal transfer service using Leapmotor C10 at KLIA

Batik Air, in collaboration with Leapmotor Malaysia, has announced a private terminal transfer service for business class passengers at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), Sepang.

Five units of the electric SUV Leapmotor C10 will be used to transport business class passengers from Gate G1 in the Main Terminal Building to Gate C1 in the Satellite Building and vice versa.

The Leapmotor C10 is a D-segment electric SUV capable of offering a driving range of up to 424 km (WLTP data).

To ensure guaranteed travel comfort, this SUV features ergonomic seating and OEKO-Tex Standard 100 textile material that is more durable and environmentally friendly.

In addition, the vehicle offers a spacious and comfortable cabin, along with a cargo space of 415 liters, which can be expanded to 1,410 liters to accommodate larger items.

This exclusive service provided by Batik Air is expected to reduce waiting times while complementing the bus services offered by Malaysia Airports during the temporary suspension of the aerotrain service.

2025 Honda e:N1 – Booking now open, launch scheduled for Q2 this year

Honda Malaysia has officially opened booking for their first electric SUV model, the Honda e:N1, which is set to launch in the second quarter (Q2) of 2025.

Built on the e:N Architecture F platform, the Honda e:N1 is powered by a front-wheel-drive electric motor producing 201 hp and 310 Nm of torque.

Its 68.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack allows for a driving range of up to 500 km on a full charge (NEDC data).

With dimensions measuring 4,380 mm in length and 1,592 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,610 mm, it matches the size of the petrol version of the HR-V.

Features included in the e:N1 comprise two-tone 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and taillights, a charging slot in the front grille, a white Honda badge, and the word ‘Honda’ emblem on the rear.

Safety features also include blind spot information (BSI), a cross-traffic monitoring system (CTM), in addition to nine advanced Honda SENSING safety functions.

Honda customers can place orders for the e:N1 on the website https://prebook.honda.com.my/ or via the HondaTouch app.

Honda Malaysia has also appointed eight authorized dealerships to handle any matters related to the e:N1 as follows:

Mazda unveils new electric SUV EZ-60

Following the launch of the electric sedan EZ-6, the collaboration between Mazda and automotive manufacturer Changan continues with the introduction of another new crossover model – the Mazda EZ-60.

Like the previously showcased EZ-6 sedan, the Mazda EZ-60 is fundamentally built on the modular platform EPA1 developed by Changan. This means it shares very similar specifications with the Deepal S07 crossover.

The exterior design of the Mazda EZ-60 aligns with Mazda’s modern Kodo design philosophy.

Notable features include a grid structure and illuminated front logo, separated headlight design, hidden door handles, and the presence of side cameras.

A striking feature is the air vent located on the C-pillar, designed to reduce drag coefficient, thereby aiding in achieving a longer driving range.

The minimalist approach is also reflected at the rear, where the Mazda EZ-60 features elongated LED tail lights that extend towards the center, along with the word “MAZDA” replacing the traditional logo.

Based on its dimensions, it is highly likely that the Mazda EZ-60 shares nearly identical measurements with the Deepal S07 SUV, as previously presented by Bermaz earlier this year.

In terms of dimensions, the Deepal S07 measures 4,750 mm in length, 1,930 mm in width, 1,625 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,900 mm.

In the Chinese market, the Deepal S07 is available with a single electric motor option producing either 218 hp or 258 hp.

There are two battery pack options available: a 66.8 kWh pack offering a range of 520 km, or a 79.97 kWh pack providing a range of up to 620 km (CLTC data).

More information about this electric SUV will be revealed ahead of the Shanghai Auto Show 2025, which is set to take place later this month.

2025 MGS5 EV previewed in Malaysia – range up to 430 km, estimated price from RM115k

MG Motor Malaysia has recently unveiled an upcoming electric SUV model, the 2025 MGS5 EV.

In terms of dimensions, the MGS5 EV measures 4,476 mm in length, 1,849 mm in width, and has a wheelbase of 2,730 mm.

The cargo space is 452 liters, which expands to 1,441 liters when the second-row seats are folded down.

The MGS5 EV is powered by a rear-wheel drive electric motor that produces 170 PS and 250 Nm of torque.

There are two battery options available: a 49 kWh battery that offers a driving range of 340 km, and a 62 kWh battery that provides a driving range of 430 km.

The MGS5 EV supports 11 kW AC charging as well as fast DC charging up to 88 kW, and it includes a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function of up to 6.6 kW.

In the cabin, the MGS5 EV features a 10.25-inch display cluster, a 12.8-inch infotainment screen, and connectivity for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The premium variant comes with additional features such as 18-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic glass roof, powered tailgate, leather and perforated fabric seats, a heated steering wheel, power-adjustable driver’s seat, a premium audio system with six speakers, and a 360-degree surround camera.

Safety features include seven airbags and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

There are five attractive color options available: Arctic White, Monument Silver, Camden Grey, Dynamic Red, and Elegant Latte.

Slated for launch soon, the MGS5 EV is expected to be priced around RM115,000.

Volvo EX90 and XC90 facelift officially launched in Malaysia – starting price RM418,888

Volvo Car Malaysia has officially launched two models of three-row SUVs today: the 2025 Volvo EX90 and the facelifted 2025 Volvo XC90 for the local market.

As showcased last month, the Volvo EX90 is a fully electric SUV built on the SPA2 platform, in contrast to the second-generation Volvo XC90, which uses the SPA platform.

Here are some brief details regarding both the EX90 and XC90 SUVs for the local market:

 

Volvo EX90

Volvo Malaysia is offering the EX90 in a single variant, the Twin Motor Performance, which features a power output of 517 hp and 910 Nm. It is paired with a 111 kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery pack that offers a range of 623 km.

The EX90 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds.

In terms of dimensions, the EX90 is indeed larger than the XC90, measuring 5,037 mm in length, 1,964 mm in width, 1,747 mm in height, and with a wheelbase of 2,985 mm.

The EX90 supports AC fast charging of up to 11 kW (10-hour charging time) and DC fast charging of up to 250 kW, allowing the battery to charge from 10% to 80% state of charge (SoC) in just 30 minutes.

Standard features of the EX90 include 21-inch wheels, front and rear LED lights, doors with soft-close functionality, and the new Sand Dune color.

Inside the cabin, equipment includes a nine-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.5-inch infotainment screen, Bowers & Wilkins 3D audio system with 25 speakers, four-zone climate control, front seat massage functions, and a panoramic glass roof.

Additionally, the Volvo EX90 is equipped with a housing for a LIDAR sensor, along with five radars, eight cameras, and 16 ultrasonic sensors.

The Volvo EX90 Ultra Twin is priced at RM442,888.

 

Volvo XC90 facelift

This marks the second facelift for the XC90 model after the first facelift was introduced in 2019.

A significant change is the design approach, which now resembles that of the EX30 and EX90 models, featuring more pronounced Thor’s Hammer headlights and a wider grille.

Moreover, the XC90 facelift is equipped with an Active Chassis Air suspension system and 20-inch wheels.

Volvo has placed greater emphasis on the cabin space, with an updated layout, an 11.2-inch vertical infotainment screen that supports Google Maps, a crystal Orrefors gear selector, Nappa leather upholstery, and much more.

For the Malaysian market, the Volvo XC90 is offered in the T8 AWD variant, powered by a 2.0-liter turbo engine (310 PS/400 Nm) paired with an electric motor (145 PS/309 Nm).

The total power output of this SUV reaches 462 hp, enabling acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds, while achieving fuel consumption as low as 1.8 liters per 100 km.

The battery pack capacity is 18.8 kWh, allowing for a zero-emission range of 77 km, with a full AC charge at 6.4 kW taking three hours.

In the Malaysian market, the Volvo XC90 Ultra T8 PHEV is priced starting from RM434,888, or the light hybrid version, the Ultra B5, which is priced at RM418,888.

Proton e.MAS 7 remains as best-selling EV in Malaysia

In March, Pro-Net, a subsidiary of Proton, successfully sold 797 units of the Proton e.MAS 7 electric SUV.

This brings the total deliveries of the e.MAS 7 to 1,853 units for the first quarter (Q1) of 2025, contributing to a market share of 30 percent thus far this year, making it the number one EV in Malaysia.

According to Zhang Qiang, the CEO of Pro-Net, “We would like to extend our gratitude to customers for their unwavering support and confidence in the Proton e.MAS 7, as well as their trust in us to provide an ecosystem that allows them to enjoy an electric driving experience.”

“This achievement will motivate us to continuously improve in offering high-quality products and provide a better ownership experience for our customers,” he stated.

For the Malaysian market, the Proton e.MAS 7 is available in two variants, the Prime priced at RM105,800 and the Premium priced at RM119,800, applicable for the first 6,000 bookings.

To facilitate users, Proton has established 75 DC charging points with up to 120 kW at several dealerships.

Additionally, owners can access over 90 percent of existing charging points in Malaysia operated by Gentari, JomCharge, chargEV, DC Handal, Chargesini, Carput Zap, RExharge, and Charge+, along with a live integrated charging map through the Proton e.MAS app.

Zhang Qiang further remarked, “Our goal is not just to sell cars; we aim to develop a complete ecosystem that involves not only 36 dealerships but also the entire EV charging infrastructure in Malaysia.

“We are also working closely with charging point operators (CPOs) to facilitate easier EV ownership as we want our customers to transition smoothly from ICE to EV.”

Third gen Nissan LEAF now a crossover with 600 km driving range

The Nissan LEAF battery electric vehicle has been on the global market since 2010 and has endured through two generations in a hatchback body style.

However, for the third generation, the Nissan LEAF has been redesigned as a crossover to align with the market demand, which leans more towards larger-bodied models.

Built on the CMF-EV platform owned by the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance, the new LEAF features increased overall dimensions, though it is slightly shorter compared to the existing LEAF.

From the showcased design, it is evident that the LEAF borrows many styling elements from the Ariya EV and boasts a drag coefficient of 0.25.

Nissan has not disclosed further specifications for the LEAF.

However, according to Nissan Europe’s product chief, Francois Bailly, the new LEAF is capable of offering a real-world driving range exceeding 598 km.

He added that the LEAF will also receive the latest Google-based infotainment system, complemented by advanced driver assistance systems.

#EratkanIkatan: ‘Balik kampung’ with EV, a more peaceful journey with CelcomDigi!

CelcomDigi is proud to announce a strategic partnership with JomCharge and chargEV, leaders in electric vehicle charging in Malaysia, as the leading operators of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in the country. They will install more than 100 charging stations in residential and commercial areas by the end of 2025.

This is part of CelcomDigi’s commitment to support the EV ecosystem in Malaysia while facilitating the transition of Malaysians to sustainable mobility.

Additionally, CelcomDigi customers can enjoy a rebate of RM10 when charging at JomCharge and chargEV stations. Check the MyDigi and Celcom Life apps today for more information on participating station locations. Rewards will be available for redemption on April 1, 2025.

The celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri becomes more meaningful with close ties and harmony between generations. In conjunction with this festive season, CelcomDigi presents the #EratkanIkatan campaign with the theme “Raya Bersama, Lebih Bermakna” inviting us to gather and create memories with family, friends, and the community.

In celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2025, CelcomDigi presents:

 

Syukur: A Tale of Dreams & Determination 

‘Syukur’ tells the story of Melor, a busker from a small town with big ambitions. Set against the backdrop of the Ramadan month, this short film portrays the challenges faced by Melor that test his patience and resilience.

The climax of the film features a cameo appearance by Yuna, who inspires the main character while also depicting CelcomDigi’s role in empowering the next generation.

 

Special promotions for Raya

Enjoy exclusive offers such as subscriptions to Disney+ Hotstar, Viu, and iQiyi starting from RM11.90/month, as well as smart devices with the Easy360 5G package for as low as RM1/month.

Visit https://www.celcomdigi.com/promotions-raya for more information and explore more attractive offers!

Pro-Net offers 30% charging discount for all Proton eMAS 7 and smart owners

Good news for Proton eMAS 7 and smart EV owners returning home for Aidilfitri. Pro-Net, a subsidiary of Proton, is offering a special discount of 30% on EV charging fees from March 29 to April 7, 2025.

According to the company, this initiative ensures a smoother and more affordable balik kampung experience.

Established in 2022 as the official distributor of smart and Proton eMAS electric vehicles, Pro-Net provides access to over 2,000 public charging points across the country, which is the largest integrated charging network in Malaysia.

Pro-Net’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Zhang Qiang, expressed his excitement for this initiative: “At Pro-Net, we are focused on making electric driving practical and enjoyable for all. As we celebrate Raya, we want to thank our customers by making it easy and affordable for them to get home.”

Proton eMAS and smart EV owners can enjoy this special offer at over 85% of public charging stations. Just use the Proton eMAS or Hello smart apps to start your charging session, and the discount will be applied automatically.

Hyundai Insteroid is what happens when a tiny EV gets a dose of steroid

Introduced for the first time in June last year, the Hyundai Inster is a rather cutesy subcompact electric vehicle.

Soon, it will have a more aggressive and ferocious-looking twin known as the Insteroid.

According to Hyundai, the name Insteroid is derived from a combination of ‘Inster’ and ‘Steroid’. While full reveal will only happen sometime in early April, this official teaser provides a glimpse of the model’s design.

From what we can see, the Insteroid features round headlights and the brand’s signature pixel LED lights similar to the Inster. But beyond that, it is an entirely different machine.

This is due to the Insteroid being fitted with a wide body kit and a massive rear spoiler designed based on racing video games. To these eyes, it looks exactly like a WRC car.

Additionally, the Insteroid boasts a roof scoop, air vents on the wheel arches, a prominent rear diffuser, and 21-inch disc wheels. The interior has yet to be revealed, but it is clear that space has been stripped out to make room for a roll cage.

The technical specifications of the Insteroid are also still unknown but given that it is equipped with a Boost button and Track mode, it is undoubtedly more powerful and exciting to drive compared to the car it’s based on.

As a refresher, the Inster, which Hyundai claims is enjoying strong sales in South Korea and Europe, is powered by a single electric motor delivering 97 PS in the Standard version or 115 PS in the Long Range version.

Chery Omoda E5 now priced RM27,000 lower at RM119,818

The Chery Omoda E5 came with a price tag of RM146,800 when it was launched in Malaysia back in March last year. Now, you can own this electric crossover for under RM120,000.

More specifically, the Omoda E5 is now available at an on-the-road price (excluding insurance) of RM119,818, meaning customers can enjoy savings of RM27,000.

However, hold your horses as this attractive offer coincides with the upcoming Aidilfitri celebrations and is limited to units manufactured only in 2024.

To further sweeten the deal, Chery Malaysia is also including a free wallbox charger valued at RM3,500, a free Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) cable valued at RM500, and RM1,000 in charging credit.

On top of that, owners can also charge their Omoda E5s for free at all Chery dealerships throughout the country.

The Omoda E5 is propelled by a single electric motor on the front axle, generating 201 hp and 340 Nm of torque. The motor gets its juice from a 61 kWh battery pack that promises a driving range of up to 430 km based on the WLTP cycle.

In addition to AC charging at 9.9 kW, the battery supports DC charging of up to 80 kW, which can replenish battery power from 30% to 80% in just 28 minutes.

The EV price war heats up in Malaysia

In addition to the Omoda E5, buyers with the budget of under RM150,000 can opt for the BYD Atto 3 Ultra, which is priced at RM123,800, representing a reduction of RM26,000 compared to the 2024 model. This does not include a cash rebate of RM5,000 for the first 1,000 buyers.

Both models will go toe to toe with the best-selling EV in Malaysia for the month of February, the Proton eMAS 7. This EV is available at a price of RM105,800 for the Prime variant and RM119,800 for the Premium variant, after discounting a cash rebate of RM4,000 offered to the first 6,000 buyers.

Proton e.MAS7 convoy covers 9,000 km across 9 ASEAN countries for 2025 Malaysia Autoshow

The Proton e.MAS7 convoy, along with four X Series vehicles showcased by Proton and Pro-Net, embarked on a journey spanning 9,000 km last Thursday (March 20).

The ASEAN Unity Drive 2025 (AUD 2025) is an initiative that highlights Malaysia’s leadership in driving green mobility, cross-border collaboration, and automotive innovation across Southeast Asia.

The Proton e.MAS7 has been chosen as the official vehicle for AUD 2025, symbolizing Malaysia’s commitment to electric mobility and supporting the national EV agenda and broader ASEAN sustainability goals.

Two main routes have been planned:

  • Northern Route: Starting in Hanoi, Vietnam, passing through Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand before arriving in Malaysia.
  • Southern Route: Starting in Manila, Philippines, through Sabah, Brunei, Sarawak, Indonesia, and Singapore before reaching Malaysia.

The AUD 2025 convoy will converge at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025 (MAS 2025), which will take place at MAEPS, Serdang from May 9 to 15.

The launch ceremony was held at the MITI Tower and officiated by the Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz.

“The ASEAN Unity Drive 2025 represents the collective strength of the region in advancing sustainable mobility while reinforcing economic integration and environmental management.

“Malaysia, through initiatives such as the ASEAN Automotive Institute Alliance, is committed to forming a unified mobility ecosystem that accelerates innovation, aligns standards, and strengthens ASEAN’s position as a global leader in next-generation transportation.

“This initiative is a significant step towards a future-ready automotive industry and brings benefits to the entire region,” he added.

In addition to the launch of new models and exhibitions of EV and ICE technology, this year’s MAS 2025 will feature a Women in Automotive segment, a Career Day exhibition, and the ASEAN Automotive Debate.

A total of 55 leading brands are scheduled to participate in the Malaysia Autoshow 2025, which is expected to attract a larger audience compared to previous editions.

Nepal becomes first international market for Proton eMAS 7

Proton has made its debut in the international electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of the Proton eMAS 7 in Nepal.

According to the automaker, the launch follows the model’s strong performance in Malaysia since its debut on December 16 and helps to pave the way of a broader international strategy.

In the Nepalese market, the eMAS 7 is distributed by the brand’s authorised distributor, Jagdamba Motors. Similar to Malaysia, it is available in Prime and Premium guises, priced at NPR 5,699,000 (RM 183k) and NPR 6,799,000 (RM 218k), respectively.

There are six colours to choose from, namely Platinum Silver, Turquoise Green, Slate Grey, Quarts Rose, Moyu Black, and Lithium White. Notably, Moyu Black is not offered in Malaysia.

Aside from the addition of the black colour, the specifications of the eMAS 7 for the Nepali market are the same as those for the Malaysian market. The Prime variant comes with a 49.52 kWh Aegis Short Blade battery that promises a WLTP range of 345 km, whereas the Premium variant, equipped with a 60.22 kWh battery, offers a range of 410 km.

According to Proton, the eMAS 7 embarked on a tour in Nepal from February 21 to March 4, prior to its official launch. The tour covered all seven provinces and included 18 stops, such as Janakpur, Birtamod, and Itahari.

The company said its entry to the market is timely and aligns well with Nepal’s Green Mobility Vision. Over the past four years, the EV penetration rate in the country has increased from 6% of its total industry volume (TIV) in 2021 to 73% in 2024, equivalent to a nine-fold increase from 1,138 units to 10,794 units during that period.

Currently, Jagdamba Motors has three operational dealers, with plans to finalise agreements with 12 dealers nationwide by the end of 2025. It also has plans to establish charging infrastructures and build a robust service center network nationwide.

“Nepal is just the beginning. Plans are already in motion to introduce the Proton eMAS 7 to other international markets to support the brand’s global growth ambitions,” said Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer, Proton.

“Going forward, we will be bringing our EV model to Trinidad & Tobago, Mauritius as well as Singapore,” he added.

BYD Atto 3 Ultra arrives in Malaysia with more kit, lower price

BYD Sime Motors has launched the Atto 3 Ultra, featuring upgraded specifications and a significantly more affordable price tag.

This latest version is priced at RM123,800, which equates to a reduction of RM26,000 compared to the 2024 model.

Furthermore, BYD Sime Motors is offering an exclusive package for the first 1,000 customers of the Atto 3 Ultra. This package includes:

  • RM5,000 cash rebate
  • 8-year service package (worth RM4,888)
  • 7 kW wall charger (worth RM3,699)
  • V2L adapter (worth RM988)
  • Type 2 cable (worth RM1,796)
  • Unlimited internet for two years

The Atto 3 Ultra comes with a comprehensive warranty package that includes a six-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty, an eight-year/160,000 km high-voltage battery warranty, and an eight-year/150,000 km drive unit warranty.

So, what’s new with the Atto 3 Ultra? In terms of exterior design, although it appears similar to the existing model, the Atto 3 Ultra features a new rim design. There are three colours to choose from: Ski White, Harbour Grey, and Cosmos Black.

The interior boasts all-black upholstery further accentuated by contrasting yellow stitching, replacing the previous red accents.

In terms of features, the Atto 3 Ultra introduces two new elements: a digital key (NFC) that allows the driver to unlock the doors and start the vehicle using a smartphone, and cooling features for the front seats.

There have been no changes to the powertrain. As before, the Atto 3 Ultra has a single electric motor on the front axle producing 204 PS (150 kW) and 310 Nm, along with a 60.48 kWh battery pack that offers a driving range of up to 480 km (NEDC).