PROTON’s dedicated electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing facility at the Tanjung Malim automotive hub is on track for completion, with mass production set to commence in September.
Despite breaking ground only in February this year, construction has already reached 90.4% completion, with equipment installation at 83.5%. Overall progress now stands at 86.9%, underscoring the speed and efficiency of the project.
Once operational, the plant will serve as the production base for models built on the Global Modular Architecture (GMA) platform. The first model to roll out will be the Proton e.MAS 7 – the brand’s inaugural EV – followed by the Proton e.MAS 5, Malaysia’s highly anticipated entry-level electric car, which is currently on a nationwide preview tour.
The facility has been engineered with scalability in mind, starting with an annual capacity of 20,000 vehicles, with the potential to ramp up to 45,000 units depending on domestic and export demand.
The modular layout allows additional stations to be added to production lines, while logistics systems and storage solutions have been optimised for flexibility. Supporting infrastructure such as digital traceability tools, including a manufacturing execution system (MES) and warehouse management system (WMS), ensures seamless future expansion without major redesign.
A key milestone was recently achieved with the Machine Try Out (MTO), during which the plant successfully trialled its first car body. According to Wan Yousry bin Mohamed, PROTON’s Head of Manufacturing Engineering, this trial run is crucial to validating equipment readiness ahead of full-scale production.
To prepare for the ramp-up, PROTON has already recruited over 30 non-executive employees with Malaysian Skills Certificates (SKM) and diploma qualifications. These personnel are currently undergoing intensive training to support operations when mass production begins in September.
Over time, the plant is expected to generate more than 200 specialised jobs in EV manufacturing and technical services, strengthening the local workforce.
In line with this, PROTON has partnered with Polytechnic Sultan Azlan Shah (PSAS) to align academic training with industry requirements. The collaboration includes input into technical curricula and the facilitation of practical training, ensuring a sustainable pipeline of EV-ready talent.
EV production requires specialised facilities, from battery assembly and high-voltage safety checks to advanced electrical testing. With support from its strategic partner Geely, PROTON has benefited from global expertise in setting up its new plant.
Geely provided guidance on production systems, assisted with equipment selection, and deployed experts to oversee installation and trial operations. Additionally, PROTON staff have undergone overseas training to ensure that the plant meets international EV manufacturing standards.
“The establishment of this EV plant represents PROTON’s transformation towards a sustainable, high-technology future,” said Wan Yousry. “It is not only a milestone for the company but also for Malaysia, as we aim to position ourselves as a leader in the regional EV market. Soon, the first Malaysian-made EVs will roll off the line and onto our roads.”
