Proton Returns to Singapore on Sept 17 with Electric SUV

Malaysia's national carmaker Proton is back in Singapore, revving up its re-entry on Sept 17 with the launch of its electric sport utility vehicle (SUV) which has taken Malaysia by storm.

- Toh Yong Chuan

TANJONG MALIM, Malaysia —

On the same day at its new showroom in Leng Kee Road, eight customers will receive their e.Mas 7 SUVs from Proton's Singapore distributor Vincar Group.

The launch ends an 11-year absence — Proton exited the Republic in 2014 after its subsidiary sold its last four cars in Singapore.

The comeback is led by a new generation of electric vehicles (EVs) developed with Chinese automotive giant Geely, beginning with the mid-sized e.Mas 7, to be followed by the smaller e.Mas 5, expected here in 2026.

Exporting EVs to Singapore is central to Proton's overseas expansion, said its chief executive officer (CEO) Li Chunrong.

"Singapore is a developed market and if we can get good performance in Singapore, I believe we can go to more countries," said Dr Li on Sept 11 in his first media interview with Singapore journalists since taking over as Proton CEO in 2017.

"That is why we want to go back to Singapore again."