Proton Reveals Self-Developed Architecture, Present In ICE To BEV Model

Global Modular Architecture (GMA) Proton. (Doc. Paultan)

JAKARTA - Proton, an automotive manufacturer from Malaysia, is taking significant steps in its commitment to electrification. Recently, they announced the development of a homemade Global Modular Architecture (GMA).

The platform will form the basis for the latest five Proton models, including vehicles with internal combustion engines (ICE), Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), and Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV).

These models are designed to be produced in Malaysia for the local market and global exports, said Proton CEO Li Chunrong, quoted from Paultan, Thursday, June 13.

Proton will also leverage its relationship with group company Geely, which allows them to integrate this new system into their new products.

"GMA will be our main platform and will be the basis for many new models, including PHEV and BEV models," added Li.

As a self-developed platform, Proton has big plans for GMA to be used in models manufactured in Malaysia, both for the domestic market and exports. They target a combined annual production volume of 200,000 units.

However, Proton's first BEV, eMas E7, is not the first vehicle to use this platform. It is almost certain that the model will use the basis of the Geely Galaxy E5 built on the Global Intelligent New Energy Architecture (GEA) developed by the parent company.

With a length of 4,615 mm, a width of 1,901 mm, a height of 1,670 mm, and a wheelbase of 2,750 mm, the Galaxy E5 is a medium-sized SUV equivalent to a Honda CR-V, which means the car will be priced at a non-cheapable price.

This opens up opportunities for the first model based on the GMA Proton platform that may be an EV at a more affordable price.