Proton EVs Put to Test by Malaysian Government

Malaysian auto maker Proton hands over eight electric vehicles to the government for testing before planned production begins in 2013.

The three Saga EVs and five Exora extended-range EVs will be tested by the prime minister's office and the ministries of energy and water, international trade and industry, transport and finance.

Proton Exora extended-range EV faces Malaysian government scrutiny.

The delivery marks the first phase of a joint program between Proton and the Ministry of Energy and Water to evaluate the EVs’ potential in advancing green technology and improving infrastructure systems in Malaysia.

The program also will provide feedback and data on the use of EVs and consumer behavior for Proton to use in developing technology and vehicle design.

The auto maker is installing charging stations at the prime minister's office and at the four ministries, as well as at the homes of officials assigned to test the EVs.

Proton Chairman Nadzmi Salleh says the partnership with the government reflects the auto maker’s commitment to reduce carbon-dioxide emissions, preserve the environment and curtail the country’s dependence on gasoline.

“In the area of automotive industry development, the initiative will also provide an opportunity for Malaysia in general and in particular Proton to spearhead the development of green automotive technologies in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ region and become a regional hub for electric- and hybrid-vehicle technology.”

Proton Managing Director Zainal Abidin says the auto maker is anxious to receive reaction from the trials.

“This feedback will help us in implementing the necessary improvements and modifications on the vehicles, and this is definitely needed before the production and commercialization of these vehicles,” he says.