Proton’s first EV to be official car for Asean summit, says PM

 

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim (third from left) at the launch of e.MAS 7, Proton’s first electric vehicle, at Mitec in Kuala Lumpur today.

KUALA LUMPUR: 

Proton’s first electric vehicle (EV) e.MAS 7 is set to be the official car for the Asean summit next year, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said.

He made the announcement at the launch of the SUV at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec) here today.

“e.MAS 7 will be our official car for the Asean (summit) next year,” he said in his speech at the grand launch of the vehicle.

Malaysia is set to chair Asean next year and will be focussing on inclusivity and sustainability.

Anwar added that the country hopes to set an example for not only promoting its capacity to produce the car but also developing EVs in line with its net zero emissions commitment.

Putrajaya had previously encouraged EV automakers with Malaysian facilities to consider making the country their hub to supply and service the fast-growing EV market in Asean, which is expected to grow to US$2.7 billion (RM11.77 billion) by 2027.

Anwar also said Proton’s EV will be built at its factory in Tanjung Malim, Perak, in the near future.

Also at the event today were deputy prime minister Fadillah Yusof, transport minister Loke Siew Fook, investment, trade and industry minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz, and natural resources and environmental sustainability minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad. - FMT