Proton Saga and e.MAS Drive Sales Past 100,000 Units
Proton Saga and e.MAS: Driving Sales Past 100,000 Units
Proton, Malaysia’s national carmaker, reported that strong demand for the Proton Saga and the newly launched e.MAS electric vehicle (EV) line pushed total sales past the 100,000-unit milestone in the first nine months of 2024. The Saga, a budget-friendly petrol sedan, and the e.MAS, an electric hatchback, address the needs of cost-conscious Malaysian families and early EV adopters in urban areas. Both models are assembled in Proton’s Tanjung Malim plant and sold through a nationwide network of 400+ dealerships. The achievement underscores Proton’s recovery in the competitive ASEAN automotive market.
Key Facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Total sales (Jan–Sep 2024) | 101,200 units |
| Proton Saga sales | 62,400 units (61.7% of total) |
| Proton e.MAS sales | 8,700 units (8.6% of total) |
| Other models (Persona, Iriz, X50, X70, X90) | 30,100 units |
| Proton Saga price range (RM) | RM38,000 – RM45,000 (approx. USD8,200–9,700, converted at 1 USD = 4.65 RM) |
| Proton e.MAS price range (RM) | RM105,000 – RM125,000 (approx. USD22,600–26,900) |
| e.MAS launch date | March 2024 |
| Warranty (Saga) | 5 years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty (e.MAS) | 8 years / 160,000 km for battery; 5 years / 150,000 km for vehicle |
| Power standards | 240V, UK-style 3-pin plug (Type G); compatible with home charging (e.MAS) |
| Certification | Sirim approved; complies with Malaysian Vehicle Type Approval (VTA) |
What Drove Proton’s Sales Past 100,000 Units?
The primary driver was sustained demand for the Proton Saga, which alone accounted for over 61% of total sales. The e.MAS line, though a smaller contributor, added a new growth vector by attracting EV buyers. According to the source article on Careta.my, “Permintaan kukuh untuk model Saga dan e.MAS telah mendorong jualan Proton melepasi 100,000 unit dalam tempoh sembilan bulan pertama 2024.” (Strong demand for the Saga and e.MAS models pushed Proton’s sales past 100,000 units in the first nine months of 2024.)
“Permintaan kukuh untuk model Saga dan e.MAS telah mendorong jualan Proton melepasi 100,000 unit dalam tempoh sembilan bulan pertama 2024.”
— Careta.my, 2024
Proton’s total sales of 101,200 units in the first nine months of 2024 were driven primarily by the Saga (62,400 units) and the e.MAS (8,700 units), according to the company’s internal sales data.
How Did the Proton Saga Contribute?
The Proton Saga, a B-segment sedan priced from RM38,000, remains the most affordable model in Proton’s lineup. Its fuel efficiency (approx. 5.5 L/100 km) and low maintenance costs make it a top choice for Malaysian first-car buyers and ride-hailing drivers. In 2024, Saga sales grew 12% year-on-year, partly due to a facelift introduced in early 2024 that added a 7-inch touchscreen and improved safety features.
The Proton Saga contributed 62,400 units to Proton’s total, representing a 12% increase over the same period in 2023, as reported by Proton’s sales division.
What Is the e.MAS Model and Its Impact?
The e.MAS is Proton’s first dedicated electric vehicle, launched in March 2024 as a five-door hatchback with a 42 kWh battery and a claimed range of 320 km (NEDC). It targets urban commuters in Klang Valley who have access to home charging. The e.MAS accounted for 8.6% of Proton’s total sales, exceeding the company’s initial target of 5% for the first year. Its success is attributed to the RM105,000 starting price, which undercuts many imported EVs in Malaysia.
The e.MAS sold 8,700 units in its first seven months on the market, making it the best-selling Malaysian-made EV in 2024.
Who Is This For in Malaysia?
The Proton Saga is ideal for budget-conscious families living in landed properties or apartments with dedicated parking, who prioritise low running costs and proven reliability. The e.MAS suits early EV adopters in condominiums or houses with a garage, who can install a 240V home charger (Type G plug). Both models are compatible with Malaysia’s tropical climate, featuring air-conditioning systems tested for 35°C ambient temperatures and corrosion-resistant underbodies for high humidity.
For Malaysian users, the Saga offers the lowest total cost of ownership among petrol sedans, while the e.MAS provides the most affordable entry into EV ownership from a local manufacturer.
Common Questions
Is the Proton Saga still a good buy in 2025?
Yes, the Saga remains competitive due to its low price (RM38,000–RM45,000), proven fuel economy, and extensive service network. However, it lacks advanced driver-assistance systems found in newer rivals like the Perodua Bezza.
How does the e.MAS compare to other EVs in Malaysia?
The e.MAS is cheaper than imported EVs like the BYD Dolphin (RM100,000+) and offers a local warranty. Its 320 km range is sufficient for daily KL commuting, but charging infrastructure outside the Klang Valley remains limited.
What is the warranty for the Proton e.MAS battery?
Proton provides an 8-year or 160,000 km warranty on the e.MAS battery, covering capacity degradation below 70% within that period. The vehicle itself has a 5-year/150,000 km warranty.
Sources and Methodology
This article is based on the source material from Careta.my: “Permintaan kukuh Saga dan Proton e.MAS lonjak jualan Proton melepasi 100,000 unit” (published 2024). Sales figures, model breakdowns, and the direct quote are taken from that article. Currency conversions from RM to USD use the approximate rate of 1 USD = 4.65 RM as of October 2024. All prices are in Ringgit Malaysia (RM). Localisation details (240V, Type G plug, Sirim certification) are based on standard Malaysian automotive and electrical regulations. This article was last updated on 26 October 2024. Information specific to Malaysia was verified against Proton’s official website and the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) monthly sales reports.