Proton mentioned in the past that it is planning to release another EV after the Proton e.MAS 7. Well, the CEO of Proton, Li Chunrong, just confirmed that the national carmaker will be releasing its second EV this year. While the model in question is still under wraps, rumours are pointing to the Geely Geome Xingyuan, which could be launched here as the Proton e.MAS 5.

It’s worth noting that local Proton dealers were shown the Xingyuan on a recent trip to China, so there is definitely a chance the electric hatchback will be localised for the Malaysian market. On top of that, Proton also trademarked the e.MAS 5 name, along with the e.MAS 3 and e.MAS 7 PHEV.

In its China home market, the Xingyuan is offered in two variants. The base model features a 58kW (79PS) and 130Nm rear-mounted electric motor, offering up to 310km of range out of a 30.1kWh battery, though this is measured on the optimistic CLTC standard. As for the higher-end Xingyuan, it comes with an 85kW (116PS) and 150Nm motor with up to 410km of CLTC range, thanks to its larger 40.2kWh battery.

Beyond the 2025 timeline, it remains to be seen exactly when Proton will unveil its second EV in Malaysia. Chances are, the e.MAS 5 – or whichever name the Xingyuan will be called for our local market – will go against Perodua’s first EV, which is expected to be an affordable electric car priced between RM50,00 to RM90,000.