Proton calls the eMAS7 a “national EV”, and a big part of making that claim – instead of just a badge-engineered car – is the fact that it’s further developed specifically for our Malaysian market. To that end, the Proton eMAS7 has now commenced local testing right here in Malaysia, and according to the national carmaker, it has shown “promising results” thus far.
As part of the eMAS7’s “extensive local testing phase”, six units of the fully electric SUV will be driven by expert engineers across a diverse range of terrains across Peninsular Malaysia to ensure that the car meets the demands of our unique environment, while ensuring its durability, adaptability, and alignment with local market requirements.
The test is split up into multiple segments, beginning with Durability Adaptive Testing (DAT) that includes advanced driver assistance feature (ADAS) testing using simulations to replicate Malaysia’s environmental factors and traffic patterns, in-car navigation fine-tuning, as well as radio frequency and internet connectivity verification tests. Proton says that this phase of testing has already been completed.
Following that, the electrical systems of the Proton eMAS7 will be put through 10,000 km road test as part of the Electrical Road Testing (ERT) to verify that all electronic functions are flawlessly integrated and functions well in our locale.
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Meanwhile, ADAS systems are continuously tested in various scenarios on-road, including shopping mall car parks, road forks, and elevated roads, while the Digital Head Unit (DHU) and Telematic Service Provider (TSP) services are also continuously enhanced, with particular focus on localisation with specific translations for Malaysian English and localised settings.
But the most rigorous part of the pre-launch tests is a 100,000 km Quality Reliability Test (QRT), where the Proton eMAS7’s acceleration, braking performance, and power consumption will be tested right here on Malaysian roads. Proton emphasises that software testing on the eMAS7 is a “key focus” for its engineers.
As a result of the localisation verifications and tests, the Proton eMAS7 has 49 additional processes and features as compared to its base donor car, the Geely Galaxy E5, including a higher 400 mm water wading depth to handle potential flooding scenarios, as well as different vehicle load capabilities and electronic stability control tuning.
An issue was also found previously during speed bump tests at the proving ground back in July, and was immediately corrected, Proton says. Following the local testing, the Proton eMAS7 will also be undergoing a thorough ASEAN NCAP crash test accreditation to ensure the highest level of safety for passengers.
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“I am thrilled to see the Proton e.MAS 7 embark on this crucial phase of local testing,” said PRO-NET Chief Executive Officer, Zhang Qiang. “This marks a significant step toward delivering a vehicle that not only represents a technological breakthrough but also embodies our commitment to meeting the specific needs of the Malaysian market.”
The Proton eMAS7 is set to be launched here in Malaysia by the end of 2024. Until then though, if you see one of the camouflaged units on the roads, you now know what they’re doing!
