PROTON is expanding its reach in the electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of the e.MAS 7 in Nepal which was held at Regency Ballroom Hotel Hyatt Boudha. The decision comes as Nepal’s EV industry experiences rapid growth, increasing nine times in recent years.
Expanding Dealerships and Charging Stations
To support this expansion, PROTON is working with Jagdamba Motors to grow its dealership network in Nepal. There are currently three dealerships, with a goal of reaching 12 by the end of the year. Plans are also in place to set up service centers and charging stations to make EV ownership easier for customers.
Before the official launch, PROTON held a nationwide roadshow from 21 February to 14 March, showcasing the e.MAS 7 in 18 locations. The car, wrapped in a special Nepali cultural design, gained a lot of attention and helped PROTON Nepal’s social media following grow to over 27,000.
Nepal’s EV adoption rate has jumped from 6% in 2021 to 73% in 2024. With the Nepal Electricity Authority planning to install over 300 charging stations in the next three years, the country is becoming an attractive market for EV manufacturers.
PROTON’s Plans for International Growth
The launch in Nepal is just the start of PROTON’s global EV strategy. In February, 50 units of the e.MAS 7 were sent to Nepal, and more were shipped to Singapore and Trinidad and Tobago for testing. PROTON is also planning to expand into Mauritius and Singapore.
In Malaysia, over 1,000 units of the e.MAS 7 have been delivered since January, with orders exceeding 4,500. This shows a growing demand for EVs among Malaysian buyers.
According to PROTON CEO, Dr. Li Chunrong, expanding into international markets is an important step for the company.
“Nepal is just the beginning. Plans are already in motion to introduce the Proton e.MAS 7 to other international markets to support the brand’s global growth ambitions,” he added.
This launch highlights PROTON’s ability to embrace modern mobility trends, elevating the Malaysian brand to the global stage.
Shahriena Shukri is a journalist covering business and economic news in Malaysia, providing insights on market trends, corporate developments, and financial policies. More about Shahriena Shukri.
