KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 13 – Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (PRO-NET) has launched an extensive local testing phase for the national car maker’s maiden electric vehicle (EV), the Proton e.MAS 7.
In a statement, PRO-NET, which is a fully owned subsidiary of Perusahaan Otomobil Nasional Sdn Bhd (Proton), said this phase involves deploying six units of the vehicle across various terrains in Peninsular Malaysia, under the expert guidance of seasoned engineers.
The testing aims to assess the vehicle’s performance in diverse conditions and ensure its readiness for the Malaysian market, PRO-NET said, adding that the targetted launch is by the end of this year.
The testing process includes durability adaptive testing (DAT), electrical road testing (ERT), advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) road test, and quality reliability test (QRT), along with ongoing enhancements to navigation systems and digital head unit (DHU) and telematic service provider (TSP) services.
PRO-NET said that it has also localised key software components, ensuring the DHU system accurately translates the original Chinese market language into English and adapts to local preference, rather than relying on generic translations.
“This collaborative effort between Proton and Geely demonstrates that the Proton e.MAS 7 is not simply a rebadged vehicle but one infused with Malaysian identity.
“Our durability tests, which include thorough troubleshooting and system checks, ensure the vehicle’s resilience under local conditions,” the company said.
PRO-NET chief executive officer Zhang Qhiang stated that the testing marks a key milestone in delivering a vehicle which not only marks a technological breakthrough but also reflects the company’s commitment to meeting the specific needs of the Malaysian market.