Akmal Azhar
Kuala Lumpur, 29 May 2025 — In a groundbreaking feat of engineering and endurance, the Proton e.MAS 7 has completed a historic 10,432km journey across nine ASEAN nations as part of the ASEAN Unity Drive 2025. Orchestrated by the Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii), this unprecedented 22-day electric vehicle (EV) road trip not only showcased the e.MAS 7’s robust capabilities but also solidified Malaysia’s position as a regional leader in EV innovation.
The e.MAS 7, Malaysia’s top-selling electric vehicle, journeyed through Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, the Philippines, East Malaysia (Sarawak and Sabah), Brunei, Indonesia, and Singapore before returning home—surpassing its initial 9,000km target by over 1,400km without a single incident.
“Completing over 10,000 kilometres across nine countries without a single battery issue is no small feat,” said Zhang Qiang, CEO of PRO-NET. “Everyone involved in the Proton e.MAS 7 project can be proud of this achievement. This journey belongs to all of us.”
Tested Across Borders and Terrains
The expedition saw the e.MAS 7 navigate the diverse geography and extreme weather of Southeast Asia—ranging from urban roads and mountainous paths to construction-laden highways and flooded routes. The EV’s high-efficiency battery performed flawlessly under challenging conditions, offering reassurance to prospective EV adopters across the region.
Drivers shared firsthand experiences of the journey’s challenges. “There were some tough routes, with rough roads and long distances between charging points,” recalled Mohd Adib bin Mohd Azam. “We even had to stop at a coffee shop to use a portable AC charger when our range couldn’t cover the next charging station.”
Muhammad Taufiq bin Mohd. Zin echoed the sentiment: “We were anxious during the 356km stretch from Pakse to Krong Kracheh in Cambodia. It was within the car’s range, but unpredictable road conditions added to the uncertainty.”
The team relied on local apps and creative charging strategies, including domestic power supplies and overnight stops to ensure adequate battery levels for each leg of the journey. “We often needed to tactically charge overnight for the next day’s long haul,” shared Peter Hugh Davis, one of the drivers.
Veteran motoring journalist Yamin Vong highlighted the e.MAS 7’s durability during the trip through the under-construction Pan Borneo Highway. “The vehicle performed excellently, even in flood-prone areas and pothole-strewn roads. As a potential EV buyer, I found the e.MAS 7 inspiring.”
A Symbol of Regional Unity and Innovation
The ASEAN Unity Drive was more than a demonstration of engineering—it was a celebration of regional connection. With every kilometre, the Proton e.MAS 7 carried not only passengers but also the Malaysian flag, serving as a moving emblem of innovation and sustainability.
Its significance was further amplified when the e.MAS 7 was chosen as the official vehicle of the ASEAN Summit 2025, hosted in Malaysia. Throughout the summit, the vehicle was a symbol of the nation’s green ambitions and its role in shaping the future of mobility in Southeast Asia.
From Pakse to Putrajaya, the e.MAS 7 has become more than a car—it’s a testament to Malaysia’s resilience, technological prowess, and vision for a sustainable tomorrow.
About Proton e.MAS
Proton e.MAS is Malaysia’s first national electric vehicle brand and a sub-brand of PROTON, distributed by PRO-NET. Launched in June 2024, it aims to accelerate EV adoption through innovation, reliability, and international standards. Proton e.MAS offers an expanding network of dealerships and aftersales services, committed to creating a seamless and customer-centric EV experience.
Yusri Ng
