With the e.MAS 7 price causing backlash, will Proton redeem itself with this e.MAS 8?
So the Proton e.MAS 7 was introduced and it sparked mixed reactions. While there were definitely some electric vehicle (EV) fans who loved it, as they do all EVs, many were less than pleased mainly because we had hoped it would cost far less than what the brand decided on. Well, Geely has something else it could offer to redeem Proton now.
I am referring to an SUV which is the latest model in Geely’s Galaxy range dubbed the Starship 7 and is underpinned by the AI new energy architecture. It measures 4,740mm in length, 1,905mm in width and 1,685mm in height, meaning it’s roughly the same size as the ever popular Honda CR-V.
Moreover, all versions of this possible e.MAS 8 come with Geely’s NordThor EM-I super hybrid system and two different battery sizes that customers can choose from. The hybrid system combines a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated engine with an electric motor and either a 8.05kWh or 19.09kWh battery pack.
This version of Geely’s 1.5-litre engine is good for 110hp and 136Nm of torque on its own, while the electric motor adds a further 215hp and 262Nm of torque. Under China’s testing cycle, the SUV can travel as far as 1,420km on a single tank, or 55km or 120km on electric power alone, depending on the size of the battery pack
On top of that, Geely designers have done a fine job of making the cabin feel plush. We can see premium-looking trim across the dashboard, transmission tunnel, door panels, and seats, as well as a neat two-spoke steering wheel. There is also a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster, a 13.8-inch head-up display, and a 14.6-inch infotainment display, making it packed with useful tech.
Higher-end models also come with 14-point massaging seats with heated and ventilated functions, a 16-speaker Flyme Sound audio system, and a 50W wireless charger. These features may not be carried forward to the e.MAS 8 as it may drive up the cost but I hope Proton retains the wireless charger and ventilated seats if they do go ahead with this SUV.
The entry-level Starship 7 Sailing Edition is the one that starts at 99,800 yuan (about USD13,700). So instead of Proton marking up the car by insane percentages if they bring it here, it can be sold in Malaysia for a more reasonable mark up or maybe even no mark up at all and be less than RM90k. What do you think about this?
