KUALA LUMPUR (Aug 18): Proton’s first dedicated electric-vehicle (EV) production plant in Tanjung Malim is set to begin operations in September, with overall progress — building and equipment installation — now 87% complete, six months after its groundbreaking.

In a statement on Monday, Proton said once completed, the plant will produce several models based on the Global Modular Architecture (GMA) platform, starting with the Proton e.MAS 7, the first EV ever produced by a Malaysian automaker. It will be followed by the Proton e.MAS 5, currently on a nationwide tour to showcase the model to the public.

Designed for scalability, the facility can expand annual capacity from 20,000 to 45,000 units, depending on demand. Its modular production lines allow additional stations, multi-model output, and flexible testing processes.

A Machine Try Out (MTO) test has already been conducted, ensuring equipment readiness before calibration, validation, and full-scale production.

Ahead of launch, Proton is hiring key operational and technical staff. Currently, 30 non-executives with Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia (SKM) and diploma qualifications are undergoing training, while 200 new roles in EV industrialisation and technical services are planned. To build a talent pipeline, Proton is partnering with Polytechnic Sultan Azlan Shah (PSAS) for syllabus input and hands-on training.

Geely has supported Proton in production system design, equipment selection, installation, and trial runs. It also arranged overseas training for staff, and ensured alignment with global EV standards.

The new facility features specialised zones for battery assembly, high-voltage safety, and electrical testing, with layouts tailored for EV underbodies and electric drive units.

“This plant symbolises Proton’s transformation and our commitment to a sustainable, high-tech future. We are also laying the foundation for Malaysia’s leadership in the regional EV landscape, by strategically expanding our EV offerings into overseas markets," Proton’s head of manufacturing engineering Wan Yousry Mohamed said.