- The facility in Perak is capable of producing up to 45,000 EVs annually.
- Built with Geely’s technical support, featuring advanced automation.
- RM82M project to create 200+ jobs, boosting EV industry growth.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim inaugurated Malaysia's first manufacturing facility solely for electric vehicles (EVs), representing a significant achievement for Proton and the country's automotive sector. Located in the Automotive High Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjung Malim, Perak, the Proton EV facility boasts an annual output capacity of 45,000 units.
The facility commences full-scale operations this month, only seven months following its groundbreaking in February. The Proton e.MAS7 - Malaysia's first EV, unveiled in December last year will be the initial completely knocked down (CKD) model produced at the facility, succeeded by the smaller e.MAS5.
Through Proton's collaboration with Zhejiang Geely Holding Ltd, additional high-end brands like Zeekr will be assembled locally at AHTV. Constructed at RM82 million, the facility covers an area of 5.57 acres. The initial phase, costing RM47 million, has a capacity for 20,000 units per year, expandable to 45,000 units.
Created with technical contributions from Geely, the facility combines automation with expert operators and features tyre handling machines, sub-assembly lines, glass installation equipment, and EV electrical testing systems.
Quality assurance will be enhanced with sophisticated inspection equipment, whereas a specific part preparation zone will optimize component management. The facility has employed 30 technical personnel and is projected to create over 200 jobs in the long run, especially in EV manufacturing and technical support for the surrounding community.
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At the launch, AHTV Alliance Sdn Bhd entered into Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) with Railway Assets Corporation and Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) to carry out a feasibility study for a new railway logistics hub for AHTV. The proposed hub focuses on enhancing container transport efficiency by transitioning from road to rail, contributing to sustainability goals and AHTV’s evolution as a regional center for new energy and advanced vehicles.
Proton CEO Dr Li Chunrong stated that the opening of the facility signifies “a significant milestone” for both the company and the country.
“This facility, built with advanced technology and a focus on scalability, will be the backbone of our commitment to producing world-class electric vehicles. The Proton e.MAS7, which has already been embraced by Malaysian consumers, is just the beginning of our journey towards a sustainable future,” he said.