After much anticipation, Proton finally launched the e.MAS 5 today and announced the price of its second EV which is as mentioned below:
- Proton e.MAS 5 Prime – RM59,800
- Proton e.MAS 5 Premium – RM72,800
*There is an RM3,000 rebate until the 31st December 2025 which brings the price down to RM56,800 and RM69,800
The e.Mas 5 is essentially Malaysia’s version of the Geely Geome Xingyuan, also known as the “Star Wish” in China — a subcompact hatchback first introduced in late 2024. Under Proton’s stewardship, the car receives subtle styling tweaks, such as a star-themed C-pillar panel and Proton badging on the front and rear, while retaining the original’s aerodynamic silhouette and compact proportions.
In China, the Xingyuan has already surpassed 200,000 units in production, underscoring its traction in the entry EV segment. For Proton, the e.Mas 5 is positioned as its “affordable EV,” targeting city dwellers and young urban drivers while competing directly with models like the BYD Dolphin.
Exterior and dimensions
Measuring 4,135 mm long, 1,805 mm wide, and 1,580 mm tall with a 2,650 mm wheelbase, the Proton e.Mas 5 rides on 16-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 205/60 R16 tyres. Ground clearance stands at 160 mm, and the car features LED headlights, dual-tone colour options, and signature C-shaped taillights that give it a futuristic flair.
Available colours previewed include Marble Cream, Quartz Rose, and Graphite Silver. The lighter tones are paired with a soft alabaster interior on the Premium variant, while darker exterior finishes come with a grey cabin theme on the Prime version.
Platform, powertrains, and performance
Built on Geely’s GMA 02 platform, the e.Mas 5 retains a rear-wheel-drive layout, offering two powertrain options. The e.Mas 5 Prime produces 79 PS and 130 Nm of torque, with a top speed of 125 km/h.
The e.Mas 5 Premium on the other hand steps up with 116 PS and 150 Nm, achieving 0–50 km/h in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 135 km/h.
Battery, range, and charging
Both variants use CATL lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries — 30.12 kWh for the Prime and 40.16 kWh for the Premium. Proton claims a WLTP-estimated range of 255 km for the Prime and 325 km for the Premium. DC fast charging from 30% to 80% takes around 21 minutes, with peak charging rates of up to 71 kW depending on the variant.
Each model supports 6.6 kW AC charging and integrates a live charging map into its infotainment system and companion mobile app, making it easier for owners to locate available charging stations nationwide.
Ride, braking, and handling
Underneath, the e.Mas 5 uses MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear — a layout uncommon in small EVs that prioritises stability and comfort. Proton claims a 36.9-metre stopping distance from 100 km/h, while the tight 4.95-metre turning radius makes it exceptionally easy to manoeuvre in tight city spaces.
To improve safety on slippery roads, the e.Mas 5 includes Proton’s G-TCS anti-skid system, enhancing traction during acceleration or cornering.
Interior and practicality
Inside, the e.Mas 5 mirrors much of the Xingyuan’s clean, minimalistic design, enhanced with Proton’s own touches. The dashboard features a pair of digital screens — an 8.8-inch instrument cluster and a 14.6-inch high-definition infotainment touchscreen — both angled slightly toward the driver for ease of access.
The Premium variant features an off-white leatherette interior, while the base model gets darker upholstery. Front seats are manually adjustable, but rear occupants enjoy generous 890 mm legroom and dedicated air vents.
Boot space measures 375 litres and expands to 1,320 litres with the rear seats folded. There’s also a 70-litre front trunk (frunk) and a total of 32 storage compartments throughout the cabin.
A powered tailgate comes standard, though a tonneau cover is omitted.
Infotainment and connectivity
Powering the in-car technology is Proton’s Atlas Auto OS, shared with newer models like the 2025 X50. The system supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with voice commands in both English and Bahasa Malaysia. Connectivity is handled via 4G or WiFi, and the six-speaker audio system offers decent quality for its segment.
The infotainment also enables over-the-air updates, remote vehicle monitoring, and navigation integration for EV charging stations. Some features present in the Chinese version — such as wireless charging, ambient lighting, and vehicle-to-load (V2L) support — are not available in the Malaysian model.
Safety and driver assistance
Safety remains a highlight for the e.Mas 5, which comes equipped with six airbags, ESC, ABS, rear sensors, and a 360-degree camera with a 3D view. The advanced driver assistance suite (ADAS) comprises 12 features, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Door Opening Warning, among others.
These technologies, combined with Proton’s traction control and stability systems, position the e.Mas 5 as one of the most comprehensively equipped small EVs in Malaysia.
Local production and Proton’s EV ambitions
The e.Mas 5 will be locally assembled at Proton’s new EV plant in the Automotive High-Tech Valley in Tanjung Malim, Perak. Opened in September 2025, the facility is capable of producing up to 20,000 electric vehicles per year, expandable to 45,000 units in the future.
The investment reflects Proton’s commitment to making Malaysia a key player in the regional EV ecosystem and supporting the country’s goal of achieving 20% electrified vehicle sales by 2030.
