Meet the best selling PHEV in Malaysia right now. This is the Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV. This SUV is marketed as a “dual-powered EV” that combines the benefits of electric city driving with the long-distance flexibility of a petrol engine which is what some Malaysians prefer over a full battery powered (EV) SUV.

It rising popularity today is due to its combination of high-efficiency EM-i hybrid technology, offering a low 4.3L/100km fuel consumption, with a competitive starting price around RM105,800–RM125,800. It offers EV-like, 80% pure electric driving for daily commutes with no range anxiety, low maintenance costs (approx. RM8,000 over 10 years), and modern features normally associated with shiny new electric cars.

Main Selling Points Of The Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV

This well executed SUV offers a combined driving range of up to 1,065 km (WLTP) on the range-topping variant. In real-world testing, it has demonstrated a total achievable range exceeding 1,200 km. However this might be more like 980 km in real world city driving conditions which is still very decent.

This vehicle operates primarily in EV or series-hybrid mode for daily use, with a pure electric range of up to 146 km (WLTP). The petrol engine acts as a backup, eliminating range anxiety during long balik kampung trips.

Proton estimates the e.MAS 7 PHEV is approximately 41% cheaper to run over 10 years compared to a conventional ICE SUV, with total maintenance costs estimated under RM8,000 (wow this is amazing). This they have shared with the media at the launch.

It features the 11-in-1 Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) and Geely’s EM-i Super Hybrid system, delivering a combined output of 262 PS and 262 Nm. This is more than enough power to climb up any hill top resort with 5 adults and luggage on board. 

Equipped with a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) “Aegis Short Blade” battery, designed for thermal stability and a long lifespan of up to 3,500 cycles. The safety suite includes up to 7 airbags and comprehensive Level 2 ADAS.

Despite being a hybrid, it offers more luggage space than most of its rivals, with a boot capacity of 528L (expandable to 2,065L).

So, now that we have shared the above information, all you need to do is visit a Pro-Net showroom and test drive this Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV for yourself to decide if it is the right vehicle for your needs over the next 5 to 7 years.