Proton eMas 7 EV Introduced as First of Five Global Modular Architecture Models; Future Plug-In Hybrids Announced

Uncovered today, the Proton eMas 7 (styled as e.MAS 7) marks the national carmaker’s debut into the electric vehicle market, scheduled to launch in Malaysia by the end of this year.

Proton has announced that the eMas 7 is the inaugural model to utilize the Global Modular Architecture (GMA). Although earlier assumptions suggested that Proton’s first EV would precede the GMA-based eMas lineup, the company has clarified that the eMas 7 is indeed the first of the five models built on this platform.

Specifically, the eMas 7 is based on GMA 01, leading the lineup that includes the GMA 02, GMA 03, GMA 05, and GMA 06. The rollout plan divides the GMA models into two phases: Phase 1 introduces the initial three models, while the GMA 04 and GMA 05 will be launched in Phase 2.

Although the eMas 7 shares similarities with the Geely Galaxy E5, which launched in China in May, Proton emphasizes that the eMas 7 is not simply a rebadged version of the E5; both vehicles were co-developed by the two companies.

The eMas 7, like the Geely Galaxy E5, features the Global Intelligent New Energy Architecture (GEA) with cell-to-body (CTB) construction, which integrates the battery pack into the vehicle’s structure to enhance torsional rigidity, measuring 31,000 Nm per degree.

Mirroring the Galaxy E5, the eMas 7 will offer front-wheel drive with a single-motor powertrain delivering 218 PS and 320 Nm of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 180 km/h.

The E5 offers two battery options: a 49.52 kWh pack with a range of up to 440 km and a 60.22 kWh pack with up to 530 km of range. These figures are based on the CLTC standard, so real-world ranges are expected to be around 350 km and 420 km, respectively. With DC fast charging, the eMas 7 can recharge from 30-80% in 20 minutes.

Its lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack, using Aegis ‘short-blade’ cells, has been tested under extreme conditions, providing up to 3,500 charging cycles, equivalent to one million km of driving, with minimal degradation in battery range.

During the launch of the Proton eMas brand, CEO Li Chunrong indicated that the GMA platform would underpin many future models, including both plug-in hybrids and fully electric vehicles.