Proton remains as Malaysia's favourite EV brand, over 13k EVs registered in 1H 2026, eMas 5 takes the lead

The biggest surprise in Malaysia's EV market during the first half of 2026 is that the best-selling brand isn't BYD or Tesla — it's Proton.

Proton recorded 13,530 EV registrations between January and June, giving it a commanding 42.6% share of the market. The result suggests Malaysia's EV transition isn't simply following the path of China or Europe, where technology-first brands dominate. Here, consumer trust in an established local brand remains a major advantage.

EVs still accounted for just 7.8% of total vehicle registrations in H1 2026, highlighting that the market remains in its early stages. Buyers continue to weigh affordability, charging infrastructure, aftersales support, resale values and overall ownership practicality before making the switch.

That's where Proton has found its edge. Rather than relying purely on technology, it has introduced EVs through a brand Malaysians already know and trust, lowering the barriers for first-time EV buyers. The eMas 5, with 10,665 units sold within 1H 2026, is a testament of a right-priced EV aimed at the right target market. 

For the Malaysian market, Proton is currently offering two variants of the eMas 5 - Prime and Premium. The Prime is priced from RM 56,800, while the Premium is priced from RM 69,800. Both prices are on-the-road, excluding insurance.

And with these prices, the Proton eMas 5 is Malaysia's most affordable EV, which explains why it's also Malaysia's best-selling EV.