The first all-electric Proton to be locally assembled in Malaysia will be the e.MAS 7 SUV.
Rather in line with the Merdeka spirit this month, Proton has proudly announced recently that it will soon begin churning out EVs at its newly built Tanjung Malim plant. Leading the proverbial charge will be the hugely popular e.MAS 7, scheduled to roll off the line in September, followed by the e.MAS 5 that is set to make its local debut later this year.
Located within the high-tech Tanjung Malim compound, construction of the high-tech facility has progressed at remarkable speed since its groundbreaking in February. Proton touts that this state-of-the-art EV production plant is now 90.4% complete, with equipment installation at 83.5% and overall readiness standing at 86.9%.
Designed with flexibility in mind, the plant will begin with an annual production capacity of 20,000 units. However, its layout allows output to be expanded to 45,000 units as sales increase, signalling Proton’s ambition to grow beyond the local market and establish a stronger presence in regional export destinations.
Supporting this scalability is a modular factory layout that can accommodate multiple platforms and models. Testing lines have been designed for quick adaptation, logistics flows have been optimised for efficient distribution, and digital traceability systems are already in place. These measures ensure Proton is prepared for future expansion without needing major redesigns.
A significant milestone was recently reached with the Machine Try Out, where the first e.MAS body was tested on the production line. According to Proton’s Head of Manufacturing Engineering, Wan Yousry bin Mohamed, this phase is crucial for validating equipment readiness and fine-tuning processes ahead of the official production start.
To support operations, Proton has already recruited and trained more than 30 non-executives equipped with Malaysian Skills Certificates and diploma-level qualifications. These workers are now undergoing intensive preparation to be fully ready for production in mid-September, when the first vehicles officially begin rolling off the line.
Looking further ahead, Proton expects to create over 200 new jobs in EV production and related technical services. To strengthen its talent pipeline, the company is working closely with Polytechnic Sultan Azlan Shah, aligning academic curricula with industry needs while also offering hands-on training opportunities for students.
Unlike Proton’s conventional ICE production lines, the Tanjung Malim EV facility features specialised zones for battery assembly, high-voltage safety, and electrical testing. Flat underbody platforms and electric drive units are also fully supported, ensuring the facility is equipped to handle next-generation EV requirements.
As to be expected here, Proton does state that much of this has been made possible with Geely’s global expertise. The Chinese automaker has provided technical guidance, assisted in equipment selection, and deployed experts to support installation and trial runs. Proton staff have also undergone overseas training to ensure that the plant operates to international standards from day one.
“This plant symbolises Proton’s transformation and our unwavering commitment to a sustainable, high-tech future. We are also laying the foundation for Malaysia’s leadership in the regional EV landscape by strategically expanding our EV offerings into new overseas markets. This is a monumental step for the company and for the nation, and we are excited to see our first Malaysian-made EVs to roll off the line and onto our roads.” added Wan Yousry.
