We finally get to test drive Proton’s very first EV, the Proton e.MAS 7! While the test drive only took place within Proton’s test track in Shah Alam, it does give us an idea on the overall driving dynamics of the electric SUV, and the famed Proton ride and handling seem to be very much present on the e.MAS 7.

For the test drive, we were given the opportunity to try out both the e.MAS 7 and its “biggest competitor,” the BYD Atto 3. Of the two electric SUVs, the e.MAS 7 certainly has superior driving dynamics with sharper throttle and steering. That being said, the Atto 3 does seem to have better cabin insulation, especially in regards to wind noise at the national speed limit of 110kmph – you may be able to hear it in our test drive video above.

To recap, two variants of the e.MAS 7 will be offered: there’s the base Prime model and the range-topping Premium trim. Naturally, the Premium version has all the bells and whistles. These include a larger 60.22kWh battery that can provide a range of up to 410km – as measured on the stringent WLTP cycle – support for 100kW DC charging, a panoramic sunroof, powered tailgate, as well as 19-inch alloy wheels.

As for the more affordable e.MAS 7 Prime, it features a smaller 49.52kWh battery, offering up to 345km of WLTP range on a single charge. DC charging has also been slightly lowered to 80kW, though AC charging remains at 11kW, similar to the Premium model. Aside from that, it also sports 18-inch wheels.

Beyond these differences, both variants of the e.MAS 7 are powered by the same front-mounted electric motor that produces 160kW (218PS) and 320Nm of torque. This is good for a 0-100kmph time of only 6.9 seconds to a top speed of 175kmph. Oh, ADAS is also standard equipment, which is great.

The Proton e.MAS 7 is now available for booking in Malaysia through the Proton e.MAS app, which can be downloaded from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Huawei AppGallery. The EV has an estimated price of RM120,000, and those who place a booking before the launch sometime in December 2024 can enjoy up to RM1,500 worth of rebates too.