Proton is set to be introducing its first EV model soon, under its new e.MAS sub-brand that was first unveiled last month. Earlier teasers and rumours have pretty much confirmed the model to be a rebadged Geely Galaxy E5, but it seems that the national carmaker has a few additional surprises up their sleeves, as hinted by another teaser post on its social media channels today.
The teaser video shows off the silhouette of three different models – one SUV which we already know of, alongside something akin to a hatchback or crossover, and another sedan. The actual identities of these cars are obviously unknown for now, but the outline of the sedan does seem to line up with that of the Proton S70.
In China, the fourth-generation Geely Emgrand – which the Proton S70 is based on – is already available as an electrified variant, powered by a 1.8-litre engine, a 136 hp electric motor and a three-speed dedicated hybrid transmission, alongside a 1.83 kWh battery pack.
That variant, however, runs on methanol fuel, and while Geely did previously indicate a possibility of introducing methanol-powered cars in Malaysia, the lack of fuel stations could be a significant deterrent. We think a new hybrid powertrain utilising Proton’s 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine is a little more likely, but only time will tell!
RELATED: Proton shows new GMA platform for future ICE, PHEV, BEV models – 1st car to debut by end of 2024
As for the hatchback/crossover, we’re honestly still unsure what it is exactly – but if we were to assume it’ll similarly be a Geely-based badge-engineering model, then it does bear a somewhat passing resemblance to the upcoming Geometry Xingyuan… We’re not exactly convinced, though.
Listed only earlier this month on China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology’s website, the soon-to-be-launched compact hatchback is designed to compete against the BYD Dolphin, and will be offered in two variants in its home country with either a 79 hp (58 kW) or 116 hp (85 kW) motor.
GALLERY
