Launching this year: Proton e.MAS 7 - brand's first BEV, C-segment SUV, GMA platform, LFP battery

Proton has unveiled its first battery-electric vehicle (BEV), the e.MAS 7. The e.MAS brand, which was announced in June this year, is managed by Pro-Net, the division also handling Smart.

The e.MAS 7 is closely related to the Geely Galaxy E5, designed for both left- and right-hand drive markets, positioning it as a global model. However, Proton highlights that the e.MAS 7 is not a simple rebadge of the E5.

The car was developed in collaboration by both companies, with 230 Proton engineers and designers contributing from the start. This collaboration involved 700,000 man-hours and 10 million km of testing and validation, ensuring a unique identity for the e.MAS 7.

Here are some key highlights that Proton has shared:

• Underpinned by the new Global Modular Architecture (GMA) platform.
• Cell-to-Body (CTB) 'Blade' Batteries: These batteries act as a structural member, providing the car with torsional rigidity of up to 31,000 Nm per degree.
• 12-in-1 Intelligent Electric Drive System: This system integrates 12 key components, including the motor, controller, and reducer, into a compact unit weighing 82.5 kg. Proton claims an efficiency of 90.04%.
• Measures 4,615 mm in length with a wheelbase of 2,750 mm. These dimensions are similar to the Proton X70, fitting the e.MAS 7 within the C-segment category, as indicated by the '7' in its name.

Specific local specifications for the e.MAS 7 have not been provided yet. However, based on the Geely Galaxy E5, we can expect the e.MAS 7 to feature an electric motor producing 218 PS/320 Nm that drive the front wheels, plus two battery possibilities: 49.52 kWh (440 km range, CLTC) and 60.22 kWh (530 km range, CLTC).

Visually, the e.MAS 7 appears nearly identical to the Galaxy E5 despite being camouflaged. Distinguishing factors include the new e.MAS logo on its front, the Proton script is placed beneath the taillights, and the 'e.MAS 7' badge.

Although the interior was not revealed, it is likely to mirror the E5’s cabin, which includes a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, head-up display, wireless charging, and ambient lighting.

Proton plans to launch the e.MAS 7 by the end of this year, likely in December, although a timeline has not been provided.

Also read: To launch ahead of Myvi BEV, P1's first electric-only brand is called Proton e.MAS, to also offer PHEVs