The automotive world in Malaysia is about to get a jolt of energy with the arrival of the Proton eMas 5, Proton’s latest push into the electric vehicle (EV) market. Positioned as a more compact, city-friendly sibling to the eMas 7, this newcomer aims to bring high-tech EV driving to a broader slice of Malaysian buyers. Below, we dig into what makes it exciting, what to expect, and how it might reshape local EV competition.

A Fresh Formula: Compact but Ambitious

While the eMas 7 is a midsize crossover EV, the eMas 5 takes on a hatchback form, designed for tighter streets, urban traffic, and daily commutes. Proton has teased the eMas 5 under wraps in recent launches, but we already see many clues pointing to its DNA: it’s based on Geely’s Xingyuan / Star Wish (EX2) platform, giving it a compact silhouette, curved lines, and efficient packaging.

The styling hints at modern minimalism: sleek LED lighting up front, aerodynamic wheels (16-inch covers), flush door handles, and a “floating roof” effect with a distinctive C-pillar treatment. Even with its smaller size, it doesn’t try to look bulky — instead, it leans into a youthful, urban elegance.

Tech & Interior: Where EVs Shine

One of the major advantages EVs bring is the ability to center the interior around digital experience. The eMas 5 appears set to embrace that fully:

• A twin-screen layout: 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster + a large 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen.

• Wireless & wired connectivity (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto) plus language support for Bahasa Malaysia.

• Ambient lighting stretching across the dashboard, doors, and even rise up in motifs (think city skyline or local landmarks).

• A “smart” OS under the hood using an automotive-grade chip — responsive handling of commands, maps, and UI in Malaysia’s heat.

• Comfort touches like rear air vents, power-adjustable front seats, Qi wireless phone charging, and a powered back hatch.

One interesting addition: the eMas 5 will reportedly offer a black interior option, which gives a sportier, more modern feel compared to lighter-tone interiors.

Motors, Batteries & Driving Range

Here’s where things get juicy (or electrified):

Proton is expected to offer two variants for the eMas 5, each with different battery and motor pairings:

On charging capability, the Premium version supports up to 71 kW DC fast charging, which can top the battery from 30% to 80% in about 21 minutes. For typical home or AC charging, it supports up to 6.6 kW.

Drive modes such as Sport, Comfort and Eco are in the mix, tailoring throttle response and efficiency to your mood and route.

Safety & ADAS: Not an Afterthought

Even though Proton hasn’t confirmed full details yet, it’s clear they’re including serious safety tech:

• Six airbags (standard across the board).

• A suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alerts, high beam assist.

• The Premium variant is likely to add extras such as a 360° camera system, parking sensors, and more advanced driver aids.

Given that the eMas 7 achieved strong safety ratings in ASEAN NCAP, expectations are high for the 5 to follow suit.

Size, Cargo & Practicality

Despite its compact form, the eMas 5 is quite practical:

• Exterior dimensions: ~4,135 mm long × 1,805 mm wide × 1,580 mm tall.

• Wheelbase: ~2,650 mm — a respectable base for interior room.

• Storage: a frunk (front trunk) with ~70 litres capacity, and a rear boot ~375 litres, which can expand up to ~1,320 litres with the seats folded.

For many city drivers, that’s more room than many expect in a “small” EV.

Pricing & Launch Timing

One of the most talked about features is the planned price. Proton has indicated the eMas 5 could retail below RM 100,000, making it one of Malaysia’s most affordable EVs to date. Early estimates floated a range between RM 60,000 and RM 80,000 depending on variant and incentives.

Bookings opened recently, with a nominal booking fee (e.g. RM 99) and bonus perks for early buyers like preloaded Touch ‘n Go NFC cards and booking rebates. First deliveries are expected to begin late 2025, likely starting with fully imported (CBU) units before local assembly kicks in at Proton’s upcoming EV factory.

What It Means for Malaysia’s EV Landscape

The eMas 5 could be a turning point:

1. Democratizing EV ownership — by bringing costs down, more people who were hesitant about EVs might finally find them within reach.

2. Competition intensifies — it directly challenges mid-tier EVs, imported or local, forcing competitors to up features or adjust pricing.

3. Charging infrastructure pressure — demand for more fast charging stations, especially in suburban and rural areas, will grow.

4. Brand perception boost — if Proton pulls this off, it could shift public perception from “just the national carmaker” to “local EV innovator.”

Final Thoughts & What to Watch

The Proton eMas 5 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated EV launches in Malaysia’s history. If Proton can deliver on the claimed specs, price it aggressively, and ensure aftersales support (battery warranties, service network, charger compatibility), this car could reshape Malaysia’s new car market.

What to keep an eye on:

• Final official range, performance, and real-world efficiency.

• The actual on-the-road pricing, after incentives, tax, registration.

• How Proton handles delivery, support, and infrastructure (charging, service, etc.).

• How buyers compare it vs rival EVs (local or imported) in the same price ballpark.