Proton’s first electric car, the e.MAS 7, is now on a nationwide tour while completing final tests ahead of its launch by the end of this year.
The e.MAS 7 shares a lot in common with the Geely Galaxy E5, which debuted in China just two months ago.
Geely declared it had developed the E5 as a global model from the outset in left-hand drive (LHD) and right-hand drive (RHD) versions as it aims to also export it to 89 countries.
Proton has dismissed talk that the e.MAS 7 is an E5 rebadge but is instead its “twin sibling”.
It would not be illogical to surmise that Proton has taken the RHD E5 and used it as a base to fast-track its own electric mobility plans, making changes to the vehicle to meet local conditions and giving it a name with a Malaysian spin - with Geely’s blessings. Taking this route would obviously help boost efficiencies and cut development costs.
So beyond the core technologies, what you see in the E5 may or may not be included in the e.MAS 7.
The E5 comes in five variants priced from 112,800 yuan to 148,800 yuan (from RM68,000 to RM90,000). It is called the EX5 in export markets.
The Malaysian media had a chance to try out the car without going to China, as a convoy of the E5 just so happened to have driven 3,700km from the big country all the way to Proton’s headquarters in Subang Jaya last month.
The route via Laos and Thailand was also a testament of the E5’s capability to handle expeditionary-style missions across varied terrain and challenging weather conditions.
The E5’s arrival at Proton’s doorsteps symbolically marked the start of the e.MAS 7 nationwide tour, which began on Oct 5.
The media drive of the LHD E5 started on Proton’s test track in the morning followed by a drive on public roads in the afternoon.
The E5 features a sleek and modern exterior, with slim LED headlights, a matrix-light closed grille, and flusheddoor handles that enhance its aerodynamics. The rear includes layered detailing and through-type LED taillights for a sophisticated look.
Inside, the cabin is minimalist and high-tech, boasting a floating LCD instrument panel, a heads-up display (HUD), and a 15.4-inch infotainment screen.
The interior is finished with quality materials, including plush white faux leather and extensive storage options (33, Geely says) for added practicality.
There’s even a drawer at the base of the rear bench seats, which is, in a word, clever.
To elevate the in-car experience, the E5 is equipped with Meizu’s Flyme Auto system and Flyme Sound, delivering easy connectivity and an immersive audio experience, aided by twin speakers in the driver’s headrest.
Generally, touch and feel of the interior is more premium than its pricing suggests.
Measuring 4,615mm in length, 1,901mm in width, and 1,670mm in height, it is larger than its closest competitor, the BYD Atto 3, and slightly smaller than the Tesla Model Y.
It is equipped with a highly efficient intelligent electric drive, CTB (cell-to-body) battery integration, and the innovative “Short Blade Battery” for superior safety and durability.
Built on the Geely Electric Architecture (GEA), the E5 offers two LFP battery options: 49.52kWh and 60.22kWh, with a range of up to 530km under the CLTC cycle.
It’s powered by a 215hp/320Nm electric motor in front that accelerates the car from 0 to 100kph in 6.9 seconds.
During the drive on track and public roads, the E5 displayed a blend of performance and comfort. Its single motor offers sufficient power for both city driving and highway cruising.
The torque is modulated for a comfort ride and builds up rather than that instant jolt.
Typical of Chinese cars, the suspension setup is soft, which Proton has promised will be re-tuned in the e.MAS 7 to suit Malaysian preferences.
As is, the E5 setup is optimised for comfort and effectively absorbs road imperfections.
However, the softness does result in some noticeable body roll when cornering at higher speeds. The handling, while comfortable, feels less dynamic, yet the vehicle maintains stability during daily driving scenarios.
At lower speeds, the cabin remains quiet, allowing passengers to enjoy the refined, serene environment. Wind noise becomes more apparent as the vehicle approaches higher speeds, particularly above 100kph.
The steering is light and precise, further contributing to a relaxed driving experience. On long drives, features like the comfortable, heated and ventilated seats — complete with massage functions — add to the vehicle’s appeal.
The E5 caters to drivers seeking comfort, advanced features, and practicality at a competitive price.
While its handling isn’t that sharp, the vehicle’s strong focus on passenger comfort, cutting-edge technology and reasonable range make it a fount of invaluable knowledge the e.MAS 7 could draw upon as it heads ever closer to production series.
