Proton and electric vehicles (EVs) aren’t a new concept – the national carmaker has been toying with the idea for an EV for the better part of 10 years, including concept electric versions of the Saga and Iriz. Alas, none of those homegrown concepts ever entered series production.
But that was not the end of their endeavors with EVs, as seen with the 2025 Proton eMas 7, the company’s first series production EV, which went on sale in the country back in December 2024.
Overview – Proton’s first-ever EV is on the right track
It’s no secret that Malaysian Tiger’s first-ever EV is a rebadged Geely Galaxy E5 – there’s little to differentiate the two models, barring bits like emblems and logos.
This new EV SUV is built on Geely’s Global Intelligent New Energy Architecture (GEA), itself derived from Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform. Said platform isn’t limited to just EVs, as it also supports plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and even range-extender (REEV), thus opening the door for the model to receive more powertrain options in the future. After all, Proton also trademarked the eMas 7 PHEV nameplate late last year, hinting at additional powertrains for its latest model.
Measuring 4,615 mm in length, 1,901 mm in width, and 1,670 mm in height, it is within the same ballpark as the BYD Atto 3 and the recently-launched MG S5 EV. Furthermore, the eMas 7 boasts the longest wheelbase amongst its rivals, coming in at 2,750 mm (the Atto 3 and S5 EV’s wheelbase are 2,720 mm and 2,730 mm, respectively).
| Eletric motor: | Single, front-mounted |
| Power: | 160 kW (218 PS), 320 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h: | 7.1 seconds |
| Range: | 410 km, WLTP |
| Charging speed: | 100 kW, DC fast charging |
| Charging time | 20 minutes, 30% to 80% |
Power for this EV SUV, in the Premium variant that we’ve tested, comes from a 60.22-kWh Geely Aegis short blade lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack. Said battery pack powers a front-mounted electric motor that outputs 160 kW (218 PS) and 320 Nm of torque – sufficient to propel this 1,765 kg EV SUV from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 7.1 seconds.
According to the company, the Premium variant is able to do up to 410 km under the WLTP cycle. Charging the EV is pretty quick too, as the Premium variant supports up to 100 kW of DC fast charging, requiring just 20 minutes to charge from 30% to 80% state-of-charge (SoC).
For the Malaysian market, the 2025 Proton eMas 7 is priced from RM 105,800 for the Prime variant, while the Premium variant that we sampled here is priced from RM 119,800. Both prices are on-the-road, before insurance.
Exterior – It’s almost as generic as EVs go
Let’s not beat around the bush here – the design of their first-ever EV is almost lifted wholesale off the Geely Galaxy E5 that it’s based on. As mentioned earlier, the only bits that are unique to the eMas 7 are the Proton logos on the front bumper, wheels, and type front on the tailgate.
But that’s not necessarily a bad thing as it is quite a decent looking EV SUV on its own. It definitely sharper-looking that the Atto 3, and we reckon comes toe-to-toe with the MG S5 EV, at least in terms of design.
Towards the rear, there are hints of a certain Stuttgart performance SUV and its one-piece tail light design. The model badge sits on the right corner of the tailgate – in-line with its stablemates.
A set of 19-inch diamond-cut, dual-tone alloy wheels complete the exterior design of the Turquoise Green sample here.
As the Malaysian Tiger’s first-ever EV, we do wish that they had more input with the eMas 7’s design – perhaps with some Malaysian design elements like what the X70 received (ie Ethereal bow front grille).
Interior – Surprisingly comfortable, though uninspiring design
As you step foot into the cabin and the first thing that hits you is how comfortable the leatherette seats are – they feel sufficiently plush and provide enough support.
Then there’s the massive 15.4-inch 2.5K infotainment display that sits centrestage on the dashboard, pumping audio through a 1,000-watt, 16-speaker Flyme audio sound system. Sound quality is decent given the price point, though we do wish that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support was available out of the box. The company has reiterated that support for both will come in a future firmware update.
Similar to other EVs, the number of physical buttons are minimal – you get physical buttons for controlling the volume and four buttons for the climate control on the centre console.
There’s also a generous dose of soft touch materials scattered throughout the cabin, further lifting the ambiance and perceived quality.
Driving Experience – Sufficient for a family EV SUV
Behind the wheel of this SUV definitely reaffirms its position as one of the best-selling EVs in Malaysia, and for a good reason.
The well-tuned suspension, coupled with the cushy seats, make for a very relaxing drive. Road imperfections are dealt with ease and reasonable pliancy, and the light and vague steering makes maneuvering tight spots a breeze. Those looking for more driver engagement or sportiness should be looking away – the eMas 7 isn’t the byword for that.
Furthermore, it offers a reasonably quiet cabin. Coupled with its 235/50R19 Goodyear Assurance tyres all-round, there’s little to fault with its ride.
For an EV that’s meant to be as fuss-free as possible, we believe that the eMas 7 hits the mark. Just manage your expectations accordingly when it comes to the ride and handling.
Conclusion – Proton’s first EV is alright for what it is
While it may be a rebadged Geely Galaxy E5, we think that’s not a source of concern as the Galaxy E5 is a very accomplished product on its own, and for them to use it as the basis for its first-ever EV is definitely a smart move.
Sure, we do wish that support for Apple CarPlay was out of the box and not a future firmware update. The company has stated that wireless Apple CarPlay will arrive by July, while Android Auto users will have to wait until December to get their phone mirroring feature – not really a deal-breaker if you can wait.
We do believe that the eMas 7 makes for a very compelling option – ride comfort is excellent, coupled with a surprisingly pleasant interior – all at a very attractive starting price.
After all, with 2,716 units delivered since the model was launched in late-2024, it’s no surprise why it has been the best-selling EV for the past four months.