PROTON EV Factory Nearly Complete, Production Set to Start in September

【PCauto】Proton’s electric vehicle production facility in the Tanjung Malim high-tech zone of Perak has reached a major milestone. Just six months after the February groundbreaking, the main building is 90.4% complete, equipment installation stands at 83.5%, and the overall project is 86.9% finished. Full-scale production is scheduled to begin in September, with the first model off the line set to be the Proton e.MAS 7.

Flexible Production Line Designed for Future Capacity Expansion

The factory features a scalable design, with an initial annual capacity of 20,000 units that can be expanded to 45,000 depending on local and overseas demand. Key production areas use modular workstations, and the testing line is capable of handling multiple platforms on the same line.

The logistics system offers full digital traceability through the Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and Warehouse Management System (WMS). The warehouse layout also allows room for future export operations.

Factory director Wan Yousry bin Mohamed said, "During the Machine Try Out (MTO) phase, we are performing final equipment calibration to ensure we meet the September production launch."

Proton Factory to Create 200 EV Technology Jobs

To support smooth mass production, the factory has already hired 30 technicians holding Malaysian Skills Certificates (SKM) and diplomas, with core position training set to finish by mid-September. Over the long term, the plant plans to create more than 200 specialized EV industry roles.

Proton has partnered with Polytechnic Sultan Azlan Shah (PSAS) to strengthen local technical talent through tailored courses and hands-on training.

All non-management staff currently on duty have now begun full production line training.

Geely Collaboration Drives Manufacturing Upgrade at Proton Factory

Unlike traditional internal combustion vehicle lines, Proton’s factory includes dedicated areas for high-voltage battery assembly, electrical safety testing, and specialized chassis tooling. With support from technical partner Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, the plant has received full technical guidance on production planning, equipment selection, and trial operations.

Geely has also sent expert teams on-site and provided Proton staff with training on international manufacturing standards, ensuring the factory meets global EV production requirements.

Factory director Wan Yousry said, "This facility reflects Proton’s commitment to becoming a sustainable high-tech company and serves as a strategic hub for Malaysia to strengthen its position as a regional EV leader."

Proton’s Product Strategy Eyes International Markets

The first model built on the Global Modular Architecture (GMA) platform, the Proton e.MAS 7, will enter mass production at the new factory in September, followed by the entry-level Proton e.MAS 5.

The e.MAS 5 is currently on a nationwide tour across Malaysia and, once locally produced, is expected to become the country’s first EV priced under 100,000 MYR.

Proton aims to use the factory’s scalable production capabilities to expand its reach across Southeast Asia and into other international markets.