Proton is gearing up to make a splash in the electric vehicle (EV) market with the upcoming launch of its new EV brand. The Proton eMas 7 (stylized as e.MAS 7) is just the beginning, as recent trademark filings with the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO) suggest that two more models, the eMas 3 (e.MAS 3) and eMas 5 (e.MAS 5), could soon follow. Additionally, a plug-in hybrid version of the eMas 7 (e.MAS 7 PHEV) is also in the works.
Proton Expands EV Lineup with New Proton eMas Trademarks
Trademark filings are common in the automotive industry as carmakers aim to secure potential model names. While these filings don’t guarantee production, the likelihood of Proton expanding its eMas lineup with the eMas 3 and eMas 5 seems high, especially after teasing plans to grow the brand following the Proton eMas 7’s launch.
Could the eMas 5 Be Based on Geely’s Geometry Xingyuan?
Although Proton has not officially confirmed the production of the eMas 3 and eMas 5, industry speculation suggests that the Proton eMas 5 could be based on Geely’s Geometry Xingyuan, an EV that Proton dealers were recently shown. Given Proton’s close partnership with Geely, this seems like a plausible direction for the automaker to take as it expands its EV lineup.
A Plug-in Hybrid Variant for the eMas 7
Another exciting development is the trademarking of the eMas 7 PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle), signaling that a hybrid variant of the eMas 7 is also on the horizon. While the eMas 7 will be a pure EV, this hybrid version could offer a more versatile option for drivers. The naming convention suggests that the PHEV will share the same size and features as the standard eMas 7.
The Geely Galaxy Starship 7 is another model to watch closely, as it shares several similarities with the eMas 7. Revealed earlier this year, the Galaxy Starship 7 is a midsize SUV measuring 4,740 mm long, 1,905 mm wide, and 1,685 mm tall. For comparison, the eMas 7 comes in slightly smaller, with a length of 4,615 mm but shares nearly identical width and height measurements.
The Galaxy Starship 7’s PHEV powertrain includes a 1.5-litre inline-four petrol engine, an electric motor, and a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, making it a strong contender to serve as a basis for Proton’s PHEV model.
What’s Next for Proton’s EV Lineup?
While Proton has yet to officially reveal what will come after the Proton eMas 7, the trademark filings suggest that the eMas 3, eMas 5, and eMas 7 PHEV could be next in line. It’s worth noting that Proton has experimented with the “emas” name before, debuting hybrid city car concepts at the Geneva Motor Show over a decade ago.
Pokdepinion: Could the eMas 3 and eMas 5 be the next big thing for Proton? Only time will tell, but things are looking promising for the Malaysian automaker’s electric future. I’m personally waiting for the price of the Proton eMas 7 to decide whether this will be my very first EV or not.
