PROTON is using the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) 2026 to showcase its vision for smarter and more connected mobility, highlighting a range of technologies that could shape the brand’s future products in Malaysia.
Under the theme “PROTON AHEAD: Intelligence That Connects People”, the national carmaker has created a dedicated Intelligent Mobility Zone that brings together its latest developments in hybrid powertrains, safety systems, vehicle architecture and connected car technologies.
The centrepiece of the display is PROTON’s latest Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) technology, which combines a Dedicated Hybrid Engine (DHE) with a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT). The system is designed to improve efficiency and driving refinement, particularly in urban traffic and stop-start driving conditions.
One of the key features of the hybrid system is its ability to automatically switch between multiple operating modes, including EV Mode, Series Mode, Parallel Mode and Direct Drive (ICE Mode), depending on vehicle speed, power demand and battery condition.
Power comes from a 1.5-litre Dedicated Hybrid Engine producing 82kW and 136Nm of torque. Developed specifically for hybrid applications, the engine features a high 14:1 compression ratio, compatibility with RON95 fuel and compliance with China 6b and Euro 6d emissions standards.
PROTON says the engine is capable of achieving up to 46.5% peak thermal efficiency through an Atkinson-cycle combustion, a water-cooled exhaust gas recirculation system and a smart electric water pump.
The Dedicated Hybrid Transmission employs a dual-motor setup consisting of P1 and P3 motors. The P1 motor handles engine starting and power generation duties, while the P3 motor functions as the primary drive motor and supports regenerative energy recovery during deceleration.
According to PROTON, the technology has been developed with Malaysian driving habits in mind, covering daily commuting, school runs, weekend travel and long-distance balik kampung journeys.
“Our technologies represent an important step in PROTON’s journey towards intelligent mobility. At KLIMS 2026, we want visitors to experience how our technology is not only advanced but also designed around real Malaysian driving conditions. PROTON AHEAD is about moving forward with intelligence that connects people, journeys and aspirations,” said Rashid Musa, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of PROTON.
Beyond its hybrid technology showcase, the Intelligent Mobility Zone also features Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), the i-GT Engine, PROTON’s Electrical & Electronic Architecture (EEA), the PROTON Modular Vehicle Cockpit Concept and the PROTON IHU Smart Cockpit.
The booth also displays PROTON’s current model range, including the Proton Saga, Proton S70, Proton X50, Proton X70 Sport Edition and Proton X90. Visitors can also view a modified Proton X50, presented as a sportier interpretation of the brand’s best-selling compact SUV.
Selected models, including the Saga, S70, X50, X70 and X90, are available for test drives throughout the show, while customers placing bookings during KLIMS 2026 can enjoy exclusive event promotions.
CarTok Editor’s Note
While PROTON has yet to confirm a production HEV model for Malaysia, displaying the complete hybrid system rather than just talking about electrification suggests the company is moving into the groundwork required to produce hybrid vehicles. Hybrids remain one of the most accessible ways to reduce fuel consumption without changing driving habits. If this showcase is any indication, PROTON seems to be preparing for a future of multiple paths towards electrified mobility.
