At the local launch of the Proton X90, the national carmaker revealed its NEV (new energy vehicle) plans. According to Proton, it will introduce at least one NEV model every year, so we can expect the company to add more hybrid – or even electric – vehicles to its model lineup in the future.

In order to accomplish this, Proton will have full support from Geely. The Chinese carmaker will also aid Proton in cultivating over 5,000 NEV talents within the next five years, alongside developing an NEV ecology in Malaysia with the goal of helping Proton to become a “leader of new energy vehicles in ASEAN countries.”

The first step of Proton’s NEV plans is the introduction of the Proton X90, which features a mild hybrid system. Later this year in Q4 2023, the national carmaker – under its Pro-Net subsidiary – is bringing in the Smart #1 electric SUV as well, with the Smart #3 following suit sometime in the future.

Proton’s NEV plans are certainly enticing for folks who want to move away from more conventional ICE vehicles. Previously, the company revealed that it aims to release its own EV sometime in 2025, so perhaps Proton will continue to look into introducing a hybrid model for 2024.