Choosing the Right Electric Vehicle for ASEAN: Proton e.MAS 7 vs. BYD M6
As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain traction in Southeast Asia, the upcoming launch of two highly anticipated models—the Proton e.MAS 7 SUV and the BYD M6 MPV—signals exciting times for potential buyers. These two fully electric vehicles are set to join an increasingly competitive market, but they cater to slightly different consumer needs. The Proton e.MAS 7 taps into the already saturated electric SUV market, while the BYD M6 stands out in the underrepresented electric MPV segment. So, which do we think will do better in Malaysia?
SUVs: A Crowded, But Popular, Market
The Proton e.MAS 7 is Proton’s first fully electric SUV, a bold move from the Malaysian automaker to capture the growing interest in electric mobility. Built on the Global Modular Architecture (GMA), the e.MAS 7 comes with solid credentials—developed in collaboration with Chinese giant Geely and boasting a sleek design, advanced battery technology, and decent performance specs.
SUVs are an immensely popular vehicle category in ASEAN, largely due to their versatility, elevated driving position, and larger size, which makes them ideal for both urban and rural settings. However, with popularity comes competition. The e.MAS 7 will enter a market that already offers a wide array of electric SUVs from new and brands, including the Tesla Model Y, BYD Atto 3, and many more. This saturation poses a challenge for Proton as it needs to stand out in a competitive crowd.
The e.MAS 7 is expected to come with a 218 PS electric motor, producing 320 Nm of torque and offering an acceleration time of 6.9 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h. Equipped with lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery technology, the vehicle offers two range options: 440 km or 530 km, depending on the battery size. While the SUV’s real-world range will likely be closer to 350–420 km, it remains competitive for typical urban and semi-urban driving needs.
In terms of design, the e.MAS 7 showcases flush door handles, sleek headlamps, and a minimalist aesthetic that is becoming standard among EVs. Inside, a large 15.4-inch touchscreen, a 10.2-inch digital cluster, and advanced safety systems such as autonomous emergency braking and adaptive cruise control are expected to appeal to tech-savvy buyers.
However, the very features that make the e.MAS 7 an attractive electric SUV are already widely available in its competitors. Its price, expected to fall between RM100,000 and RM170,000, might help it undercut some rivals, but it will need to distinguish itself through branding, user experience, and after-sales support to make a significant impact.
The Underserved MPV Segment: BYD M6
On the other hand, the BYD M6 enters a relatively underdeveloped segment in the ASEAN market—the electric MPV. Currently, the only competitor is the Weststar Maxus MIFA M9, a niche model with limited appeal outside select fleet buyers and large families. This lack of competition puts the BYD M6 in a prime position to capture the attention of buyers seeking a spacious, eco-friendly, and practical family vehicle.
MPVs have traditionally been popular in Southeast Asia due to their ability to carry multiple passengers comfortably, a key consideration for larger families and ride-hailing services. The BYD M6, with seating configurations for six or seven passengers, offers a modern alternative for families or business owners transitioning to electric mobility.
What sets the BYD M6 apart is its practicality and the promise of a solid driving experience. Powered by BYD’s proprietary Blade lithium iron phosphate battery, the M6 offers two battery options: a 55.4 kWh pack with up to 420 km of range (NEDC), and a larger 71.8 kWh pack providing up to 530 km. These range figures, while slightly inflated by the NEDC standard, still position the M6 as a capable long-distance MPV.
The BYD M6 delivers 163 PS in its base variant and 204 PS in the higher output version, with both offering 310 Nm of torque. The higher output version can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds, making it competitive with many SUVs in terms of performance.
The interior of the M6 is also geared toward comfort and convenience, featuring a rotating 12.8-inch touchscreen, wood-effect dashboard trim, keyless entry, and push-button start. Higher trims add premium touches like a panoramic sunroof, ventilated power-adjustable front seats, and wireless charging, appealing to more discerning buyers.
Crucially, the MPV’s spaciousness and practicality, coupled with its advanced safety features—including six airbags, lane-keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring—make it an excellent choice for families. Moreover, with its expected pricing between RM107,000 and RM124,000, the BYD M6 could offer great value in a segment where the only other electric MPV, the MIFA M9, is priced higher.
Which Makes More Sense for ASEAN Buyers?
For the average ASEAN buyer, choosing between the Proton e.MAS 7 and BYD M6 comes down to individual needs and market conditions.
If you’re looking for an electric vehicle that offers an elevated driving position, versatility, and good performance, the Proton e.MAS 7 is a solid contender. However, with so many electric SUVs available, it doesn’t bring anything particularly groundbreaking to the table. Its real selling points may lie in Proton’s local brand reputation and pricing strategy, but it faces stiff competition from better-established models like the BYD Atto 3 and Tesla Model Y. These have already saturated the market, so making any gains at a 6-digit price point is going to be tough.
On the other hand, the BYD M6 occupies a much less crowded space. With only one direct competitor—the Weststar Maxus MIFA M9—the M6 stands to capture a niche market that is eager for a practical, family-oriented electric vehicle. Families and ride-sharing operators looking for a spacious, comfortable, and eco-friendly alternative should find the M6 particularly appealing, especially given its relatively affordable pricing.
