When we talk about localisation in the automotive scope, we often think about tangible activities like local assembly (CKD) and local supplier ecosystems, but rarely do things like software and digital infrastructure come into our minds.
And that is exactly what national NEV marque PRO-NET partakes in, through the localisation of its digital infrastructure, connected mobility services, and charging platform in line with the government’s National Automotive Policy (NAP 2020), National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), and broader automotive localisation agenda.
Malaysia’s First Self-Developed Connectivity Platform
According to PRO-NET, their Proton e.MAS NEVs are part of a wider connected vehicle ecosystem currently serving more than 300,000 vehicles, which also includes Proton vehicles, making it the first self-developed vehicle connectivity platform.
This platform supports connected features such as remote vehicle control, connected infotainment, charging integration, and the Proton e.MAS app.
The national NEV marque also added that to date, this platform has facilitated more than eight million remote control downstream requests for EVs, reflecting the increasing adoption and growing role of connected services in enhancing everyday mobility experiences.
Given that the platform is fully developed by and for the locals, some of the connected services offered by PRO-NET include complete Bahasa Malaysia language support, localised navigation, an integrated live charging map, as well as locally relevant features like a Qibla compass and TheNoor prayer application.
To date, PRO-NET is the only company to achieve a fully local supply chain for cockpit equipment, with its localised infotainment hardware fully manufactured in Malaysia.
Strengthening Local Charging Services
Digital platforms aside, PRO-NET is also strengthening its localised charging platform to make charging more accessible and convenient for NEV owners. To date, the company has invested more than RM4 million in said platform, with approximately 11,000 users recorded and around 30,000 charging orders charted, totalling 790,000 kWh in charging volume.
Through its Integrated Live Charging Map, PRO-NET currently provides access to more than 4,300 charging points nationwide, delivering approximately 90% coverage across Malaysia’s public charging network.
“By localising our connected services and digital infrastructure, we are laying the foundation for a stronger Malaysian EV ecosystem,” said PRO-NET CEO Zhang Qiang. “This allows Proton e.MAS to deliver mobility solutions that are not only technologically advanced but also practical and relevant to the way Malaysians live and drive.”
