since 1976
since 1976
PROTON is showcasing the technologies shaping its next phase of growth at the Global Automotive and Technology Expo 2026 (GATE 2026), presenting an integrated view of how the national carmaker is building capabilities in electrification, intelligent vehicles and connected mobility.
Held from 26–28 August at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), GATE 2026 brings together policymakers, manufacturers, technology companies, suppliers and research organisations to advance Malaysia’s role as a regional automotive technology hub. As a platinum sponsor, PROTON is supporting the event while showcasing technology developed and adopted across its expanding mobility ecosystem.
Built around the theme “PROTON ADVANCES. MALAYSIA MOVES FORWARD”, at the centre of the booth is PROTON’s hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) technology, framed by an LED infinity tunnel symbolising the company’s continuous journey towards smarter and more sustainable mobility.
“PROTON has changed significantly since our partnership with Geely began. We have renewed our model range, strengthened engineering and manufacturing, developed new energy vehicle capabilities and brought more advanced technology to Malaysian consumers. GATE 2026 allows us to show that progress through the systems behind our vehicles, not only the vehicles themselves,” said Dato’ Ir. Abdul Rashid Musa, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, PROTON.
Five technologies tell one connected story
Visitors to the PROTON booth will be able to explore five technology areas that work together to improve performance, safety, connectivity and the overall ownership experience:
HEV technology – demonstrating PROTON’s growing electrification capabilities and the technologies supporting the transition to lower-emission mobility.
Electrical and electronic architecture (EEA) – the foundation that enables vehicle systems to communicate and supports the integration of intelligent functions.
1.5-litre i-GT engine technology – showcasing a new generation of efficient turbocharged performance already experienced by customers in the Proton X50.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) – illustrating how sensing, alerts and driver-support functions can contribute to safer and more confident driving.
Infotainment and connectivity – featuring technology developed with ACO Tech to deliver
PROTON’s technology transformation has been reflected in its business performance. In 2025, the company sold 157,976 vehicles, while exports reached 6,000 units, the highest annual volume since 2012. The momentum has accelerated in 2026 with sales for the first seven months reaching 118,788 units, 38.7% higher than the corresponding period last year. This included 21,808 Proton e.MAS vehicles, led by Malaysia’s best-selling EV, the Proton e.MAS 5, and the country’s leading plug-in hybrid, the Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV.
“These results demonstrate why continued investment in technology matters. New capabilities help us produce better vehicles, serve more customers and create opportunities for Malaysian engineers, vendors and technology partners. They also strengthen Malaysia’s ability to compete as a regional centre for advanced automotive manufacturing,” added Abdul Rashid Musa.
Energy management strengthens sustainable manufacturing
During the GATE 2026 opening programme, PROTON will also mark its ISO 50001:2018 Energy Management Systems certification, awarded by the British Standards Institution (BSI). PROTON is the first passenger vehicle manufacturer in Malaysia to receive the certification, which covers a structured framework to monitor, control and continuously improve energy performance across its manufacturing operations.
The system supports PROTON’s target of improving energy efficiency by 2% annually. It builds on initiatives at Tanjung Malim including solar photovoltaic generation, energy digitalisation and real-time monitoring, LED lighting upgrades and optimisation of major production systems. Up to December 2025, the plant’s solar energy array had reduced carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 48,453 tonnes.
PROTON’s participation at GATE 2026 continues the strategic engagement where the company exchanged collaboration documents with the Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii) covering shared testing facilities, the National Automotive Test Centre and structured development exposure for PROTON R&D personnel.
