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Proton’s International Sales Division (ISD) has officially entered Nepal’s rapidly expanding electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of the Proton e.MAS 7. This strategic move capitalizes on Nepal’s EV sector, which has experienced a remarkable nine-fold growth in recent years. The launch builds upon the model’s strong performance in Malaysia since its debut on December 16, 2023, and serves as a stepping stone for Proton’s broader international expansion strategy.

Official Launch Event

The launch event, held at the Regency Ballroom of the Hotel Hyatt Boudha in Kathmandu, was attended by key representatives from Malaysia and Proton. Notable attendees included Mohammad Firdaus Azman, Chargé d’Affaires of Malaysia in Nepal; Dr. Li Chunrong, CEO of Proton; Zhang Qiang, CEO of PRO-NET; and Edmund Lim Meng Thong, Director of International Sales. Proton’s official distributor in Nepal, Jagdamba Motors Pvt. Ltd., was represented by its leadership, including Chairman Shanker Lal Agrawal, Executive Director Akhil Gupta, Managing Director Sahli Agrawal, and Senior Vice President Raju Bhetwaal.

Dealer Network and Charging Infrastructure Expansion

Proton’s expansion strategy in Nepal includes a growing dealer network and charging infrastructure development. Currently, three dealers are operational, with plans to establish 12 dealerships nationwide by the end of 2025. Jagdamba Motors Pvt. Ltd. is actively working to enhance Nepal’s EV ecosystem by investing in charging stations and service centres, aiming to alleviate consumer concerns about EV adoption.

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Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has unveiled the specifications for its Honda Next Generation Fuel Cell Module and Honda Fuel Cell Power Generator at the 23rd International Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Expo (H2 & FC EXPO) in Tokyo. These advancements mark a significant step in Honda’s commitment to hydrogen-powered technology and sustainability.

Mass Production Timeline

Honda announced that mass production of the Next Generation Fuel Cell Module will commence in 2027, while the Fuel Cell Power Generator is set to enter production in 2026. These developments align with Honda’s long-term vision of promoting clean energy solutions and achieving carbon neutrality across its operations by 2050.

Next-Generation Fuel Cell Module

The newly introduced fuel cell module has been independently developed by Honda as a successor to the previous model, which was jointly created with General Motors. It features a rated output of 150 kW, improved efficiency, and a significantly reduced production cost—cutting costs in half while more than doubling its durability compared to the current version.

The module’s volumetric power density has increased more than threefold, resulting in a more compact design that enhances installation flexibility. By expanding the applications and market reach of this next-generation module, Honda aims to further contribute to a sustainable, energy-efficient society.

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The Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii), with support from the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) and Tourism Malaysia, has officially launched the ASEAN Unity Drive 2025 (AUD 2025). The initiative, which aims to promote sustainability in mobility, marks the start of an ambitious 9,000km journey across nine ASEAN countries.

A landmark initiative in Malaysia’s leadership in green mobility, cross-border collaboration, and automotive innovation, AUD 2025 will culminate at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025 (MAS 2025), scheduled to take place from May 9 to May 15, 2025, at MAEPS, Serdang.

The official flag-off ceremony was held at Menara MITI and was officiated by the Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz. He emphasized that the initiative represents the region’s collective strength in advancing sustainable mobility while reinforcing economic integration and environmental stewardship. Malaysia remains committed to shaping a unified mobility ecosystem that accelerates innovation, harmonizes standards, and strengthens ASEAN’s position as a global leader in next-generation transportation. This drive, he noted, is a vital step towards a future-ready automotive industry benefiting the entire region.

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Proton premiered the latest instalment of its Hari Raya short film series at a special buka puasa event, marking the second consecutive year of collaboration with Elite Definition Sdn Bhd, the exclusive distributor of Little Joe Air Freshener in Malaysia.

The 2025 edition features the Proton e.MAS 7, the brand’s latest C-segment electric SUV, showcases its standout features that have made it Malaysia’s best-selling EV for the first two months of the year. With a runtime of nearly 27 minutes, the film explores themes of family, forgiveness, and communication—core elements of Hari Raya traditions. Directed by Pekin Ibrahim, the production stars Que Haidar, Azwan Ali, and Fatimah Abu Bakar, bringing an emotional narrative to life.

Proton’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer Roslan Abdullah highlighted the success of last year’s Hari Raya short film, which garnered 5.2 million views across social media. Encouraged by the overwhelming response, the company decided to produce another film that integrates cultural values with the introduction of its first electric vehicle, the Proton e.MAS 7.

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A new version of the MG4 all-electric hatchback has been revealed in regulatory filings in China, showcasing a significantly larger design and a complete overhaul in styling. The development suggests that MG may be taking a fresh approach to its entry-level EV, particularly as the current MG4 has struggled with low sales in the Chinese market.

The new MG4, now listed by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), measures 4,395 mm in length, 1,842 mm in width, and 1,551 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,750 mm. Compared to its predecessor, which had dimensions of 4,287 mm in length, 1,836 mm in width, and 1,516 mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,705 mm, the new model is notably larger in all aspects. The increased size suggests it is more than just a facelift and represents an entirely new generation.

The redesign extends beyond dimensions, as the new MG4 features an overhauled front fascia, reworked doors, and a revamped rear section. The greenhouse structure between the A and C pillars has also been modified. The styling appears to draw inspiration from the MG3 hatchback while incorporating elements from the MG Cyberster, particularly in the rear, where a wide light strip and arrow-shaped taillights create a striking visual resemblance.

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ASEAN member states are working towards the introduction of a standardised electric vehicle (EV) policy to accelerate the region’s transition to clean energy and enhance sustainability efforts. The initiative focuses on addressing key challenges such as battery standardisation and the development of a cross-border EV charging infrastructure.

Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz stated that discussions on these measures have already begun among senior officials and national leaders. The policy aims to mitigate range anxiety for EV users while fostering a resilient and interconnected regional supply chain in the automotive sector. The timeline and framework for the initiative are expected to be finalised and officially announced at the upcoming ASEAN Summit in May.

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