Proton local EV component production in Malaysia

At the end of July 2026 Proton began assembling its e. MAS 7 plug‑in hybrid locally at the Proton EV plant in Tanjong Malim, using a CKD process that sources about 30 % of parts from Malaysian suppliers. The model quickly became Malaysia’s best‑selling PHEV, accounting for 47 % of the segment and generating over 11,000 bookings. The plant, employing 391 staff, added a front‑seat massage feature but kept pricing unchanged. The rollout was part of the Proton‑Geely partnership, which lifted annual output capacity above 150,000 vehicles and created roughly 9,700 jobs across the automotive ecosystem.

A few days later, on 3 August 2026, Proton started in‑house production of the dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) and electric drive unit (EDU) that power its electrified models. The RM121 million facility at the same Tanjong Malim complex sources half of its 16 suppliers locally, marking the first time a Malaysian automaker has produced these key components domestically. Officials highlighted localisation rates of 70‑80% for certain models, continued tax contributions exceeding RM 806 million, and the broader economic benefits of the partnership.

Together, the two steps illustrate Proton’s rapid move from assembling complete hybrid vehicles to manufacturing critical drivetrain components within Malaysia, deepening local content and strengthening the national EV supply chain.