APU wins PROTON’s 2026 business case challenge focused on making EVs Gen Z’s first car

The Proton Neutron Electron team from Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) has won the PROTON Business Case Study Challenge (PBCSC) 2026.

Organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education (KPT), the competition challenged university students to develop strategies to make electric vehicles (EVs) the preferred first car for Generation Z.

Record participation

This year’s competition attracted a record 56 teams from public and private universities nationwide, a 33% increase over last year.

Of these, 18 teams advanced to the finals.

The main winners were:

  • Champion: Proton Neutron Electron, APU — RM10,000.
  • Runner-up: Team Malaya Tigerz, Universiti Malaya — RM8,000.
  • Third place: Team Emas 3, Monash University Malaysia — RM5,000.
  • Best Individual Presenter: Topaz Lim Jing Tai, APU — RM1,000.

The PBCSC Influencer Award was also introduced for the first time, recognising three winners for their creativity and efforts to promote the competition through digital platforms.

Exposing students to industry challenges

Each team comprised three final-year students, with each university allowed to field a maximum of two teams.

Participants were required to apply their academic knowledge to develop practical solutions to real-world business challenges.

Now in its fourth year, PBCSC has grown from a collaboration with the Association of Malaysian Students in Beijing (AMSIB) in 2023 into a national university competition in 2024.

PRO-NET continued its involvement for the second consecutive year, supporting the competition’s EV theme.

The competition also serves as a platform for PROTON to identify emerging talent while preparing students for the workplace.

PROTON’s broader talent development initiatives include engine donations to educational institutions, collaboration with Institut PROTON on TVET job placements, and the Proton Young Talent programme, which involves approximately 350 graduates.

Proton e.MAS Impianku: design an EV with AI, win a 3D-printed model

Proton New Energy Technology (PRO-NET) is inviting Malaysians to take part in the e.MAS Impianku design competition, which will run from 19 October to 30 November 2026.

The initiative gives participants an opportunity to share their ideas on the design, features, and technologies they would like to see in future electric vehicles (EVs).

Two competition categories are available: Open Category and University Student Category.

Open Category

This category is open to Malaysian residents aged 18 and above.

Eligible submissions will be showcased in a digital gallery for public voting from 5 to 13 December 2026.

The top 20 designs with the highest number of votes will be shortlisted for final judging.

A total of eight winners will receive the following prizes:

  • Three Grand Prize Winners: A 10-inch 3D-printed model based on their winning design.
  • Five Consolation Prize Winners: A miniature 3D model based on their respective designs.

Winners of the Open Category will be announced at an official PRO-NET event in January 2027.

University Student Category

This category is open to students aged 18 and above who are enrolled in recognised higher education institutions in Malaysia.

Unlike the Open Category, winners will be selected exclusively by a judging panel, with no public voting involved.

The top three winners will receive cash prizes as follows:

  • First Prize: RM1,000
  • Second Prize: RM600
  • Third Prize: RM400

In addition, 12 consolation prize winners will receive exclusive Proton e.MAS merchandise.

How to Participate

Participants must visit protonemasimpianku.com, select their preferred category, and use the sample AI prompts provided as guidance to create their design using any generative AI platform.

Completed designs must then be uploaded together with a fully completed entry form before 11:59 pm on 30 November 2026.

Participants may submit more than one design, but they may only enter one competition category. All submissions must be original works generated using AI and must comply with the competition’s terms and conditions.

The submitted designs are intended purely as creative concepts and do not represent confirmed Proton e.MAS production models.

PROTON X50 Sport Edition launched, gets a sportier look for just RM1,999 extra

Proton has officially unveiled the Proton X50 Sport Edition (SE), bringing a more aggressive and sporty appearance through 15 exclusive exterior and interior enhancements.

Based on the X50 Flagship variant, the model is not offered as a separate variant.

Instead, it is available as an integrated styling package for an additional RM1,999 over the standard Flagship variant.

15 Exclusive Enhancements

On the outside, the X50 Sport Edition features an all-black theme complemented by contrasting red accents to emphasise its sporty character.

Additional accessories include:

  • Black Front Upper Garnish
  • Black Front Side Port Trim Garnish
  • Black Lower Bumper Garnish
  • Black Rear Side Port Trim Garnish
  • 18-inch black alloy wheels
  • Exclusive Sport Edition front, side and rear skirts
  • Sport Edition badging


Inside the cabin, the sporty theme continues with red stitching applied to the steering wheel, centre armrest, door trims and seats.

The front seats feature Sport Edition embroidery, while the floor area receives exclusive trim finishes, TPE floor mats and Sport Edition metal door scuff plates.

According to Proton, all of these enhancements have undergone more than 13,700 hours of testing, covering durability, corrosion resistance, UV resistance and suitability for Malaysia’s tropical climate.

Flagship Performance Remains Unchanged

While the design receives a significant update, the mechanical and technological package remains identical to the Flagship variant.

The X50 Sport Edition continues to be powered by a 1.5-litre i-GT turbocharged engine producing 181 PS and 290 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

The B-segment SUV also comes equipped with:

  • 14.6-inch infotainment display
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Hi Proton voice command system
  • Proton Link 2.0 application

In terms of safety, it retains up to 15 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) features, including Auto Park Assist (APA), a 360-degree HD camera with 180-degree transparent view, and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

PROTON Link 2.0 Adds Greater Convenience

Through the PROTON Link 2.0 mobile application, owners can remotely access various vehicle functions using their smartphones.

Available features include remote engine start, air-conditioning control, door locking and unlocking, power window operation, tailgate access, as well as horn and light activation.

The application is also compatible with selected Huawei smartwatches running the HarmonyOS operating system.

Launch Package

In conjunction with the official launch, customers can enjoy exclusive enhancements worth RM7,000 for an additional RM1,999 compared to the standard X50 Flagship.

The ownership package also includes:

  • Pro-Warranty: Five-year unlimited mileage warranty and six free labour services
  • Pro-Connect: Five years of complimentary in-vehicle data with a monthly quota of 2GB

2026 Proton X50 Sport Edition looks more aggressive, bookings now open

Proton has opened bookings for the 2026 X50 Sport Edition (SE) for the Malaysian market.

This latest X50 SE offering is based on the Flagship variant, featuring up to 15 exclusive elements for a bolder and sportier appearance.

The exterior receives a full black treatment paired with red accents.

It also comes with a body kit comprising front, side and rear skirting, a Sport Edition emblem, and 18-inch black alloy wheels.

Inside, the sporty theme continues with black trim and contrasting red stitching on the steering wheel and seats.

The front seats feature Sport Edition embroidery, accompanied by SE carpets and TPE floor mats.

Lastly, the X50 SE gets SE scuff plates on the door sills.

No mechanical changes have been made, meaning the X50 SE continues with the 1.5L i-GT turbo engine producing 181 PS and 290 Nm.

Other features include:

  • 14.6-inch infotainment display
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
  • panoramic sunroof
  • HD 360-degree camera
  • 15 ADAS features

Proton e.MAS celebrates 40,000 vehicle deliveries, continues offering extensive ownership benefits

In just 20 months, Proton e.MAS has reached a new milestone with the delivery of its 40,000th vehicle.

To celebrate its rapidly growing community, Proton e.MAS is introducing an enhanced suite of ownership benefits covering charging, after‑sales services, rewards, and digital features.

Charging Discounts

From 1 October 2026 (11am) to 5 October 2026 (11am), owners can enjoy a 40% charging discount via the Proton e.MAS mobile app.

Through the same app, owners also gain access to the network of 12 charge point operators (CPOs) and enjoy the following perks:

  • RM1.20/kWh rate at DC Handal chargers
  • 20% discount at RExharge charging stations (from 5 October–31 December 2026)

Peace of Mind Throughout Ownership

For after‑sales services, Proton e.MAS is offering:

  • 10% discount on servicing and maintenance
  • Exclusive Touch ‘n Go cards for the first 1,000 customers who service their vehicles

Customers looking to trade in their vehicles are eligible for an additional rebate of up to RM1,000 through Carsome from 1 October to 31 December 2026.

Purchasing or renewing insurance policies (e.MAS Care Elite or Care Flex) comes with:

  • RM100 free charging credit (for the first 5,000 customers from 1 October–31 December 2026)
  • Entry into a lucky draw, with prizes including the Huawei Watch GT 7 and Band 11

A Smoother Digital Experience

The existing Proton e.MAS app will be updated and is expected to be launched by the end of 2026.

New features include PassGo, a rewards platform based on the concept of “drive and earn rewards.”

Starting 29 September, owners can collect one point for every kilometre driven, subject to terms and conditions.

Accumulated points can be redeemed for various rewards such as Grab, TnG, Foodpanda, and Lazada vouchers, as well as exclusive merchandise.

More Rewards for Owners

Proton e.MAS’ offerings extend beyond charging and after‑sales services.

Eligible owners can enjoy 10% discounts on beverages at selected ZUS Coffee outlets.

Customers who opt for residential solar solutions through Huawei FusionSolar will receive an instant RM5,000 rebate and stand a chance to win a five‑day, four‑night holiday package to Shenzhen, China.

Proton e.MAS has also announced the “Where Does Your e.MAS Take You?” contest, open to all e.MAS owners.

By sharing photos or videos of their experiences on the official Proton e.MAS Community Facebook page, participants stand a chance to win the grand prize — a Proton e.MAS 7 diecast model — along with 40 Touch ‘n Go vouchers worth RM50 each.

A Meaningful Milestone

According to Zhang Qiang, Chief Executive Officer of Pro‑Net, “Delivering 40,000 e.MAS vehicles is a meaningful achievement for us. As the community grows, our responsibility increases to make EV ownership easier, more comfortable, and more rewarding.”

He added that Proton e.MAS now has 60 dealers nationwide, with plans to expand to over 70 outlets by the end of 2026, including 57 service centres and 14 Body & Paint facilities.

“This continuous expansion ensures our customers receive the support they need throughout their ownership journey.”

Proton Capital offers more financing options for customers

Proton has officially launched its new subsidiary, Proton Capital Sdn Bhd as a dedicated automotive financing arm.

The initiative aims to make vehicle ownership more accessible for eligible customers.

Financing for eligible customers

Proton Capital aims to deliver an integrated, efficient and customer‑focused financing experience, from application to vehicle handover.

In its initial phase, Proton Capital will serve eligible individual customers, including:

  • salaried employees
  • self‑employed individuals
  • customers with other verifiable income sources

Applications can be submitted through 12 participating branches across the Klang Valley.

Each application will be assessed based on income, existing financial commitments, credit information and the applicant’s repayment capability.

Proton Capital is also targeting one‑working‑day approval for complete applications.

More options for customers

At launch, Proton Capital will offer conventional hire‑purchase financing for new Proton vehicles, including standard fixed‑rate packages and a dedicated package for the Proton S70 taxi.

The company also plans to introduce additional products in stages, including financing tailored for e‑hailing services.

For now, only conventional financing is available, while Shariah‑compliant financing is scheduled to be introduced by early November.

2026 Proton S70 gains two new variants, 1.5L NA engine, priced from RM56,800

Proton has officially introduced two new variants for the S70 sedan, namely the S70 Lite and S70 Prime.

These new variants are positioned as an indirect replacement for the Persona, which is expected to be discontinued in the near future.

Selling prices (after rebate) are as follows:

  • S70 Lite – RM56,800 (original price RM59,800)
  • S70 Prime – RM59,800 (original price RM62,800)

The RM3,000 rebate is valid for customers who complete their vehicle registration before 31 December 2026.

In conjunction with the launch, Proton is also offering the following package:

  • Five-year unlimited mileage warranty
  • Six free labour service sessions
  • Nine-year financing with a 2.35% per annum rate
  • Trade-in value of up to RM2,000

Powertrain

Unlike the existing S70 variants, the two new additions are powered by a 1.5‑litre i-GT naturally aspirated engine.

The engine produces 120 PS and 150 Nm, sent to the front wheels via a torque‑converter CVT.

Equipment

As standard, the S70 Lite comes equipped with halogen headlamps, LED daytime running lights, 16‑inch alloy wheels, and a grille finished in black.

Inside, the S70 Lite features:

  • Fabric‑wrapped seats
  • Analog instrument cluster with MID display
  • 8‑inch infotainment screen
  • Electronic parking brake (EPB)

The S70 Prime receives several upgrades, including:

  • 17‑inch alloy wheels
  • Automatic LED headlamps
  • Power‑folding side mirrors
  • Leatherette‑wrapped steering wheel
  • Leatherette seats
  • Automatic air-conditioning

Safety

Standard safety features include six airbags, rear parking sensors, and a reverse camera, while the S70 Prime adds front parking sensors.

Both variants also come with:

  • Blind spot monitoring (BSD)
  • Rear cross traffic alert (RCTA)
  • Rear collision warning (RCW)
  • Door opening warning (DOW)
  • Lane change assist (LCA)

Colour

The 2026 PROTON S70 Lite and Prime are available in Quartz Black, Marine Blue, Space Grey, Snow White, and Armour Silver.

Pro‑Net hands over 3 Proton e.MAS vehicles to PDRM for evaluation

On 10 September, Pro‑Net handed over three Proton e.MAS vehicles to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM).

The three units comprise the Proton e.MAS 5 Premium, Proton e.MAS 7 Premium, and Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV Premium Plus.

Real‑world capability assessment

PDRM will deploy all three vehicles to evaluate usability, practicality, and charging requirements in real operational conditions.

This initiative will provide clearer insights into how well electric vehicles align with the force’s operational needs.

Throughout the evaluation period, Gentari will also provide complimentary charging services.

Proton Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Ir. Abdul Rashid bin Musa, said the joint evaluation with PDRM is an important opportunity to observe how e.MAS vehicles perform in real‑world scenarios, offering a more comprehensive experience than a standard test drive.

“With three models (e.MAS 5, e.MAS 7, and e.MAS 7 PHEV), PDRM will be able to experience the differences between each electric powertrain option and assess their performance and suitability based on operational requirements,” he said.

The evaluation aims to help PDRM understand how EV and PHEV technologies fit the needs of its fleet.

Proton’s e.MAS vehicles have the potential to support PDRM’s daily operational duties, including crime‑prevention patrols, subject to the outcome of the assessment and future government considerations.

2026 Proton S70 now offered with 1.5L NA engine & CVT, estimated price below RM60k

Proton has announced two new variants for the 2026 Proton S70 sedan, namely the Lite and Prime.

Both variants are powered by a 1.5‑litre i-GT naturally aspirated (NA) engine, paired with a CVT transmission.

Bookings for the new variants are now open, with an estimated selling price of under RM60,000.

Customers who book and register the S70 Lite or Prime before 31 December 2026 will be eligible for exclusive rewards that will be announced later.

Key highlights

According to Proton, the updated S70 offers 10 standout features, including:

  • Largest cabin space in its class
  • Soft-touch dashboard materials
  • Automatic window operation with Anti-Trap function for all windows
  • Electronic parking brake (EPB) with Auto Brake Hold
  • Remote engine start
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto support

In terms of safety, the S70 is equipped with six airbags, front and rear parking sensors, a reverse camera, and a rear seat reminder.

Additionally, it features a Rear Side Radar System (RSRS), which includes:

  • Blind spot detection
  • Lane change assist
  • Rear cross traffic alert
  • Door opening warning
  • Rear collision warning

Pro-Net to develop e.MAS charging stations through strategic partnerships with major CPOs

Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (Pro-Net) has announced plans to introduce e.MAS‑branded charging stations nationwide.

Through strategic collaborations with DC Handal, JomCharge and chargEV, several charging stations will be established at key locations beginning in the third quarter of 2026.

e.MAS owners will also enjoy special charging rates when making payments via the Proton e.MAS mobile application.

Access to Over 4,700 Charging Points

As of today, owners can access more than 4,700 charging points, covering over 90% of Malaysia, through the Proton e.MAS mobile app.

This feature is complemented by a live charging map integrated directly into e.MAS vehicles.

The strategic partnership with major Charge Point Operators (CPOs) marks the next step in expanding the Proton e.MAS ecosystem and bringing the brand’s charging experience to more public locations.

Pro-Net Chief Executive Officer Zhang Qiang said, “As more Malaysians choose electric vehicles, access to charging facilities becomes increasingly important.

“Through collaborations with major CPOs, we aim to make charging easier while offering added benefits to e.MAS owners at key locations.”

Pro-Net Head of Charging Division Ahmad Munif Halim added, “By working with experienced CPOs, we can simplify the charging process while giving customers access to existing support networks whenever assistance is needed.

“All these efforts help us deliver a better charging experience for e.MAS owners.”

Proton e.MAS 5 lands in Nepal – 2 variants, priced from RM80k

Proton has officially launched the Proton e.MAS 5 electric SUV in Nepal, marking the model’s second international market after its debut in Singapore.

The e.MAS 5 was introduced by Proton’s authorised distributor in Nepal, Jagdamba Motors, during a launch event attended by representatives from the Malaysian Embassy in Nepal.

Two variants are offered: Prime and Premium.

The Prime variant is powered by an electric motor producing 78 hp and 130 Nm, paired with a 30.12 kWh LFP battery that delivers an NEDC driving range of up to 285 km.

The Premium variant generates 114 hp and 150 Nm, and comes with a 40.16 kWh battery offering a driving range of up to 395 km.

In Nepal, the Proton e.MAS 5 is priced at Rs. 35 lakh (RM94,000) for the Prime variant and Rs. 40 lakh (RM107,000) for the Premium variant.

To celebrate the launch, Jagdamba Motors is offering special introductory prices for the first 100 customers:

  • Prime – Rs 29,99,999 (RM80,000)
  • Premium – Rs 34,99,999 (RM94,000)

2026 Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV now assembled locally at Tanjong Malim

Proton New Energy Technology (Pro‑Net) has officially begun local assembly (CKD) operations for the Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV at the Automotive High Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjong Malim.

The first e.MAS 7 PHEV roll‑out ceremony was officiated by YB Senator Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), together with Deputy Minister YB Sim Tze Tzin.

Also present were Tan Sri Syed Faisal Albar, Proton Chairman; Dr. Li Chunrong, Proton Chief Executive Officer; and Dato’ Ir. Abdul Rashid Musa, Proton Deputy CEO.

Sales Performance & New Features

The Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV has emerged as Malaysia’s best‑selling plug‑in hybrid vehicle, with registrations reaching 4,500 units to date.

Total bookings have surpassed 11,000 units.

Proton also announced a new feature for the e.MAS 7 PHEV: a massage function for the driver and front passenger seats. This enhancement is available exclusively for the Premium and Premium Plus variants.

The addition reflects Pro‑Net’s commitment to improving its products based on customer feedback and evolving consumer expectations, ensuring the model remains practical and relevant for daily use.

Strengthening the Local Ecosystem

The CKD programme for the e.MAS 7 PHEV marks the next phase of Pro‑Net’s localisation efforts, involving Malaysian suppliers across the automotive value chain.

Approximately 30% of the vehicle’s components are sourced locally.

This represents a significant step toward strengthening Malaysia’s automotive ecosystem, expanding domestic manufacturing capabilities, and creating more high‑skilled job opportunities.

Proton’s new EV plant currently employs 391 staff members.

Plans to Increase Local Content

Earlier this year, Proton announced plans to expand its new energy vehicle (NEV) assembly plant at AHTV Tanjong Malim.

With an investment value of RM37 million, Proton aims to increase production capacity to 42,000 units per year.

This initiative is part of the company’s broader strategy to raise local content across its product lineup.

Proton S70 selected as new national taxi under Teksi Madani programme

Malaysian Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim recently launched the National Teksi Madani Renewal Programme at Dataran Merdeka.

The launch marked the beginning of a national initiative to renew and strengthen the nation’s taxi industry. It follows the earlier announcement of a 100% excise duty and sales tax exemption for taxi and private hire car owners purchasing new locally manufactured vehicles. The initiative aims to reduce the cost burden of new vehicle ownership and accelerate the nationwide renewal of the taxi fleet.

Additionally, the programme offers taxi drivers the opportunity to transition to vehicles that are more modern, safer, more comfortable, and of higher quality. At the same time, an additional allocation of RM10 million was announced for a matching grant programme to replace old vehicles with new ones.

Proton S70: The New Face of National Taxis

The Proton S70 was selected for its features that meet the operational requirements of public mobility, including a spacious cabin, a fuel-efficient engine, and smart connectivity technology. Furthermore, owners need not worry as there is an extensive network of Proton service centres across the nation.

Under the programme, eligible operators will be offered the Proton S70 Premium in an exclusive Ruby Red colour, replacing the traditional two-tone red-and-white livery. The sedan will also be fitted with the necessary additional hardware, including:

  • an LED panel displaying green Teksi/E-Hailing lettering
  • an additional meter display for transactions and advertisements
  • a special GET registration number (red lettering on a white background)
  • a unique decal on the C-pillars

Furthermore, the new S70 taxis will no longer feature the conventional roof-mounted taxi topper or operator labels on the doors.

Proton e.MAS 5 gets new Jade Green colour

Pro-Net, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Proton has announced a new colour for the Proton e.MAS 5, named Jade Green.

The model is showcased alongside the newly introduced Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV in Emerald Green for the Malaysian market.

As of 2026, Proton has successfully sold over 8,000 units of the e.MAS 5.

It has also proven to be a popular model in the Northern region, holding a market share of 64.2 percent as of March 2026.

GMA Platform Showcased for the First Time in the North

Pro-Net also took the opportunity to showcase the Global Modular Architecture (GMA) platform in the North.

This initiative provides visitors with a closer look at the technology that underpins Proton’s EV and PHEV lineup.

The ongoing Proton e.MAS Golden Test Drive campaign invites the public to experience driving the e.MAS and offers the chance to win exciting rewards.

Running from April 13 to May 17, the campaign features weekly rewards of 30 gold bars, each weighing 3 grams, which will be distributed over a five-week period.

2026 Proton X70 Sport Edition officially launched – limited to 600 units, priced at RM112,800

Proton has officially launched the 2026 Proton X70 Sport Edition (SE) for the Malaysian market with a selling price starting at RM112,800.

Production is limited to only 600 units.

Exclusive Features

The Proton X70 Sport Edition boasts several exclusive features, including:

  • Full body kit (front, side, and rear skirts)
  • 19-inch black alloy wheels
  • Exclusive Sport Edition emblem
  • Quartz Black color

The cabin is enhanced with red stitching on the steering wheel, seats, and armrest.

Additionally, it features an embroidered Sport Edition logo on the seats and a practical boot tray for everyday use.

Specifications Remain Unchanged

The X70 Sport Edition is based on the Premium variant and is equipped with features such as:

  • 12.3-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support
  • Level 2 ADAS with 13 safety features

The 1.5TD i-GT inline 4-cylinder engine delivers a power output of 181 PS at 5,500 rpm and torque of 290 Nm at 2,000-3,500 rpm, paired with a seven-speed DCT transmission.

Proton e.MAS Golden Test Drive rewards Malaysians with 30 gold bars

Pro-Net, a wholly owned subsidiary of Proton has announced the Golden Test Drive campaign for the Proton e.MAS running from April 13 to May 17, 2026.

This latest campaign invites Malaysians to experience electric mobility by test-driving the following models:

  • Proton e.MAS 7
  • Proton e.MAS 5
  • Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV

With the theme “30 Bars of Gold in 30 Days,” the campaign offers the chance to win 30 units of 3g gold bars over five consecutive weeks.

How to Participate

There are four simple steps to take part in this campaign:

  1. Follow Proton e.MAS on social media (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, or Xiao Hong Shu)
  2. Visit any official Proton e.MAS dealer
  3. Test drive and book any Proton e.MAS model
  4. Complete the form and submit your entry through the participating official dealers

A total of six winners from across the country will be selected each week to take home a 3g gold bar.

Exclusive Grand Prizes

Additionally, the campaign offers exclusive grand prizes, including:

  • 1x Grand Prize: A 5-day, 4-night trip for two to the Gold Mine Tour in Australia
  • 3x Gold Class Prizes: 5g gold bars

Golden Roadshow at Selected Locations

Proton will host a Golden Roadshow, bringing its range of EVs closer to Malaysians at select locations:

  • Queensbay Mall, Penang (April 15-19)
  • AEON Melaka (May 19-24)
  • East Coast Mall, Kuantan (June 24-28)

2026 Proton X70 Sport Edition: Limited to 600 units, bookings now open

Proton is set to launch yet another limited edition SUV model on April 16, namely the 2026 Proton X70 Sport Edition.

This new model will be showcased at selected dealerships this weekend.

Details of the X70 Sport Edition

Limited to 600 units, the X70 Sport Edition is offered based on the Premium variant and features an exclusive Quartz Black color.

Key details of this model include:

  • Special body kit (front, side, and rear skirts)
  • 19-inch black alloy wheels
  • Sport Edition emblem

Inside the cabin, the following features are available:

  • Sport Edition logo on the front seats
  • Red stitching accents on the seats, steering wheel, and front armrest
  • Cargo tray

An Important Model for the Proton Brand

According to Dato’ Ir Abdul Rashid Musa, Chief Executive Officer of Proton Edar, “The Proton X70 is an important model that has changed customer perception of the Proton brand.

“It marks the beginning of a new era for the company in terms of products, technology, and global collaboration.”

“The introduction of the X70 Sport Edition offers a more stylish and exclusive option for customers. It reflects the ongoing evolution of the X70 in line with market expectations,” he further explained.

Proton X50 now available in Quartz Black

Proton has announced the introduction of a new colour, Quartz Black, for the Proton X50 SUV model.

This follows the successful launch of the X50 Black Edition last March, which sold out all 200 units.

Strong Sales Momentum

Throughout March 2026, the Proton X50 continued to demonstrate strong sales momentum, with 3,265 units sold.

This solid performance has maintained its position as the most popular SUV in Malaysia for the first three months of the year, with a total of 7,571 units sold.

Proton is also offering a comprehensive after-sales service package to provide convenience and peace of mind to owners.

Among the offerings are:

  • Fast basic service within 90 minutes for customers who make advance bookings
  • Assurance that vehicles will be completed within 24 hours for comprehensive maintenance work
  • A replacement vehicle and free service (including labor and spare parts costs) if repairs take more than three working days

The facelifted Proton X50 was officially launched in July last year, featuring significant changes both inside and out.

It is equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 181 PS and 290 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed DCT gearbox.

For the local market, this SUV is priced as follows:

  • Proton X50 Executive – RM89,800
  • Proton X50 Premium – RM101,800
  • Proton X50 Flagship – RM113,300

2026 Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV now available in Emerald Green

Pro-Net, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Proton, has announced the new Emerald Green colour for the 2026 Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV model.

According to Salawati Yusoff, Chief Branding Officer of Pro-Net, this new color not only provides more options but also enhances the design and identity of this SUV.

The e.MAS 7 PHEV features Geely’s Super Hybrid EM-i powertrain, which consists of a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine (98 hp/125 Nm) and a single electric motor (215 hp/262 Nm).

The total power output reaches 258 hp and 262 Nm, driving the front wheels.

There are two battery capacity options for the e.MAS 7 PHEV.

The Premium Plus variant uses a short-blade Aegis 29.8 kWh battery, offering a range of 170 km (NEDC data) and supporting 60 kW DC fast charging.

Charging from 30% to 80% takes less than 16 minutes.

Meanwhile, the Premium and Prime variants are equipped with a CATL 18.4 kWh battery, providing a driving range of 105 km and supporting up to 30 kW DC charging.

This PHEV system offers three hybrid modes: Series Hybrid Mode, Parallel Mode, and Direct Drive Mode.

Overall, the e.MAS 7 PHEV can travel up to 1,065 km.

In addition to Emerald Green, customers can choose from colours such as Obsidian Black, Lithium White, Mercury Silver, Galena Grey, and Azure Blue.

2026 Proton X90 receives one-star ASEAN NCAP rating

The ASEAN New Car Assessment Program (ASEAN NCAP) has officially revoked the five-star rating for the newly launched 2026 Proton X90.

The SUV is now rated only one star due to the removal of the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in the updated model.

In 2023, the Proton X90 received a five-star rating with an overall score of 83.79 points, covering the following performance areas:

  • Adult Passenger Protection (37.75/40.00)
  • Child Protection (17.79/20.00)
  • Safety Assistance (15.71/20.00)
  • Motorcycle Rider Safety (12.50/20.00)

Reduction in safety features

ASEAN NCAP found that a significant portion of the ADAS technology assessed in 2023 has been removed from the X90 2026, including:

  • Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
  • Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
  • Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
  • Lane Keeping Assistance (LKA)
  • Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
  • Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)

Under the ASEAN NCAP 2021-2025 Protocol, a vehicle’s star rating will be limited if it performs poorly in any single category.

The removal of these technologies caused the Safety Assistance (SA) score to drop to a four-star level.

Meanwhile, the Motorcycle Rider Safety (MS) category, which heavily relies on Blind Spot Detection, has drastically fallen to one star.

As a result, the overall rating for the Proton X90 is now limited to just one star.

2023-2025 Proton X90 still rated five stars

ASEAN NCAP confirmed that the X90 models manufactured between 2023 and 2025 still retain their five-star rating.

This is because the mentioned models are still equipped with the ADAS technologies mandated by the 2021-2025 evaluation protocols.

According to Prof. Madya Ir. Ts. Dr. Siti Zaharah binti Ishak, the Director-General of MIROS, “We are deeply disappointed by Proton’s decision to remove life-saving ADAS technologies from this new facelift model.

“To protect consumers and maintain the integrity of safety standards, we had no choice but to revoke the five-star rating.

“This serves as a reminder to all manufacturers: safety is not something to be compromised.

“Do not sacrifice proven safety technologies for mere external luxury, such as infotainment systems or leather upholstery,” she added.

Ts. Yahaya Ahmad, the Technical Head of ASEAN NCAP, further stated, “Blind Spot Detection (BSD) is a critical weighting factor in our Motorcycle Safety (MS) category.

“The removal of it, along with other advanced aids, has stripped away the points that previously granted the X90 its highest rating.

“ASEAN NCAP will continue to monitor all evaluated manufacturers, and we will not hesitate to revoke the ratings of any brand that neglects vehicle safety after assessments are made.”