The facility is currently 86.9% complete, with equipment installation at 83.5%, Bernama reported.

The plant will manufacture multiple models starting with the Proton e.MAS 7, Malaysia’s first locally branded EV.

This will be followed by the Proton e.MAS 5, an entry-level EV currently being showcased nationwide.

Initial production capacity is 20,000 units annually, with the potential to increase to 45,000 units depending on local and export market demand.

The plant is expected to create over 200 jobs in EV manufacturing and technical services.

Proton’s partner, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, is providing support in equipment selection, production systems, and staff training.

Geely experts are also assisting with installation and trial runs to ensure that the facility meets global EV manufacturing standards.

Proton’s head of manufacturing engineering, Wan Yousry Mohamed, said the new plant reflected Proton’s commitment to a high-tech, sustainable future.

“We are also laying the foundation for Malaysia’s leadership in the regional EV landscape by strategically expanding our EV offerings into new overseas markets,” he said.

“This is a monumental step for the company and the nation, and we are excited to see our first Malaysian-made EVs roll off the line and onto our roads.”