Malaysia accelerates electric vehicle development
Malaysian automaker Proton launched its first electric vehicle assembly plant on Thursday, as the Southeast Asian nation looks to boost the development of its EV industry.
Proton Holdings Bhd e.MAS 7 EVs at the company's plant in Tanjung Malim, Perak, Malaysia. Photo courtesy of bangkokpost.com.
The Proton EV plant – developed in partnership with China’s Geely Auto – was built on a 2.2-hectare site at an estimated cost of MYR82 million ($25.5 million). It is equipped with advanced digital systems and specialised EV facilities, including battery assembly, high-voltage safety, electric testing, and EV chassis integration.
In its initial phase, the plant will have a production capacity of about 20,000 EVs per year. Once fully completed, its annual capacity is expected to rise to 45,000 units.
Speaking at the plant’s launch, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed hope that Proton EVs can roll off the new production line before the 47th ASEAN Summit in October 2025, where they will be showcased to more than 20 attending heads of state.
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