Malaysia’s automaker Proton said Monday that its electric vehicle (EV) production plant is nearing its completion, with the full-scale production process slated to begin in September.

The firm said in a statement that the new plant which located within the high-tech Tanjung Malim compound, will be completed just six months after the groundbreaking ceremony in February.

The building is now 90.4 percent complete and equipment installation is at 83.5 percent, with overall progress at 86.9 percent.

Once completed, the new plant will produce multiple models from the Global Modular Architecture (GMA) platform.

The first to roll off the line will be the Proton e.MAS 7, the first-ever EV from a Malaysian automotive brand.

This will be followed by the Proton e.MAS 5, Malaysia’s entry-level EV, which is currently being showcased to the public on a nationwide tour.

The plant’s layout was designed with scalability in mind, allowing for flexible adaptation to future models and production volumes.

From an initial planned capacity of 20,000 units, the plant can ramp up production to 45,000 units per annum.

This expansion will be implemented based on sales demand in Malaysia and overseas markets.

For key areas, each line could add several stations, with their tester lines being modular and capable of accommodating platform variations or multi-model production.

In the logistics area, the plant is capable of future expansion, with its logistics flow and storage systems optimized to support both local and export markets.

Infrastructure such as utility systems, material handling paths, and digital traceability tools like manufacturing execution system (MES) and warehouse management system (WMS) are already in place to support future scaleup without significant redesign.

One of the critical milestones achieved was the Machine Try Out (MTO), during which the first car body was trialed in the factory, according to Wan Yousry bin Mohamed, Head of Manufacuring Engineering in Proton.

“This trial run is to continuously check on our equipment readiness. We are now in the final stages of preparing the zones for the TF equipment installation and integration,

“All equipment calibration and validation activities will be carried out progressively during these phases, ensuring we are fully prepared for the production launch,” he emphasized.

According to the statement, over 30 non execs are now fully trained and on board for the full production schedule.

To support the ramp-up before launch, the plant’s immediate hiring focus is on critical operational and technical roles.

To-date, it has added 30 non-executives with Malaysian Skills Certificate (SKM) and diploma background with its immediate goal to fully train these key personnels before the full-scale production begins in mid September.

This will eventually lead to the creation of over 200 new jobs, specializing in EV industrialization and technical services, for the local community.

Therefore, to strengthen its local talent pipeline, Proton is collaborating with Polytechnic Sultan Azlan Shah (PSAS) by providing technical syllabus input and supporting hands-on training initiatives.

This partnership helps aligning academic learning with industry needs and supports long-term workforce development.

Proton highlighted that unlike those for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, EV production lines require specialized areas for battery assembly, high-voltage safety, and electrical testing.

The new plant’s layout is adapted to accommodate flat EV underbodies and electric drive units, featuring dedicated zones, enhanced safety, and flexible line configurations for future scalability.

As part of this partnership, Geely has provided technical guidance on production systems, helped with equipment selection, and deployed experts to assist with installation and trial runs.

On the other hand, Geely has also facilitated overseas training for Proton staff and ensured the plant aligns with global EV manufacturing standards.

This guarantees the plant meets current needs and offers long-term scalability.

“This plant symbolizes Proton’s transformation and our unwavering commitment to a sustainable, high-tech future,

“We are also laying the foundation for Malaysia’s leadership in the regional EV landscape by strategically expanding our EV offerings into new overseas markets,” said Wan Yousry.

According to him, this is a monumental step for the company and for Malaysia, and the firm excited to see its first Malaysian-made EVs to roll off the line and onto the roads.

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