Proton reveals range extended electric car series
The Geneva Motor Show may have closed its doors, but there was still time for another series of exciting range extended electric car concepts to be revealed.
This time it was the turn of Malaysian car manufacturer Proton, which unveiled the five-door, four-seat hatchback EMAS; a three-door, five-seat hatchback EMAS Country for country driving; and a three-door, 3+1 seat EMAS3 for city driving.
Proton EMAS drive system elements.
As it bids to expand its global footprint, Proton is focusing on eco-friendly vehicles with EMAS standing for Eco Mobility Advance Solution, while also meaning “gold” in the Malay language. The EMAS vehicles are the result of collaboration between Proton, its subsidiary Lotus, and Italian design house Italdesign Giugiaro.
The drivetrain for the vehicles has been developed by Lotus Engineering and includes the Lotus Range Extender three-cylinder, 1.2litre internal combustion engine. It can develop 38kW at 3,500rpm and can run on petrol, natural gas, ethanol or methanol. The front transverse internal combustion engine is coupled with a generator that recharges the 11.47kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
Five-door hatchback Proton EMAS.
The engine boasts some impressive performance statistics. Its top speed is 106mph and it can accelerate from 0-62mph in 14 seconds. Battery range in the hybrid configuration is 31miles.
Proton is now hoping that the EMAS3 can be fitted with a larger battery pack so that a full electric version can be made available.









