Malaysia

Reported on May 7, 2024, smart Malaysia has already opened registrations of interest (ROI) for the smart #3 electric coupé-SUV. Its official Malaysian-market launch is expected to happen soon.

This second model from the smart brand following the #1 e-SUV also rides on the Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA). From debut, the #3 is specified with a 66-kWh nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC) battery that is good for 440 km of range (WLTP).

Pricing details for the #3 in Malaysia have yet to be unveiled.

(From an article of Paul Tan on May 7, 2024 and smart Malaysia social media updates)

On May 7, 2024, Pro-Net, the distributor of smart in Malaysia, announced the expansion of its EV charging infrastructure network, aiming to serve the growing demand for New Energy Vehicles (NEVs).

Under the partnership with a clean energy solutions entity Gentari, 6 DC chargers (12 bays) have been set up across PROTON Edar Dealerships, including 50 kW, 100 kW, and 120 kW chargers, as well as 3 units of 60 kW DC chargers. This is in addition to the chargers at smart dealership network, of which there are 5 DC chargers and 13 AC chargers installed, resulting in a total of 22 charging bays. 

Furthermore, PRO-NET will extend its footprint in the East, with imminent plans to launch charging infrastructure as part of its dealership expansion network in Sabah.

List of current Pro-Net’s EV charging facilities in Malaysia is shown on smart Malaysia’s press release.

(From smart Malaysia press release on May 7, 2024)

Reported on May 3, 2024, Proton has confirmed that the launch of its first PHEV model will take place in 2025, around the same time as its first BEV model. 

The Malaysian carmaker has yet to provide further details on its PHEV model, but it will be likely based on an existing model of its partner, Geely.

In addition, Proton has also revealed that the upcoming facelifted X70 will feature Level 2 autonomous driving capabilities for the first time. Moreover, the 1.8-liter turbocharged petrol powertrain choice has also been discontinued, making the 1.5L Premium X variant the top variant of the X70 line-up.

Previously, the 1.8-liter engine for the X70 was imported from China, while the 1.5 liter 3-cylinder unit is locally assembled at the Tanjung Malim plant.

(From an article of Paul Tan on May 3, 2024 and on May 6, 2024)