Will PRO-NET and AMTEL make EV battery recycling more common now?
PRO-NET, the green mobility subsidiary of national carmaker PROTON, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AMTEL Cellular Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of AMTEL Holdings Berhad. This strategic partnership focuses on the proper handling, disassembly, and disposal of EV batteries to support a more sustainable, circular economy.
Through this collaboration, PRO-NET will leverage AMTEL’s expertise to extend the lifespan of EV batteries and recover valuable materials for secondary uses, such as energy storage systems or new battery production, helping to reduce waste and environmental impact. AMTEL’s commitment to R&D also includes exploring innovative ways to repurpose used battery cells.
Moreover, the need for sustainable battery recycling is urgent. According to the Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii), an estimated 870,000 EV batteries will require recycling in Malaysia by 2050. This underscores the importance of establishing clear frameworks for responsible collection and disposal.
PRO-NET CEO Zhang Qiang emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainability, stating, “As we help Malaysia transition to green mobility, we also want to ensure the entire process remains environmentally responsible. Although there is no formal government mandate yet, we are taking proactive steps to manage EV battery disposal in a safe and economically viable way.”
Battery disposal efforts will also comply with the Department of Environment’s eSWIS (Electronic Scheduled Waste Information System) regulations. AMTEL will also focus on turning retired batteries into safe and efficient energy storage units, helping to build a complete EV ecosystem from manufacturing to end-of-life care.
On top of that, highlighting PRO-NET’s technological leadership, the Proton e.MAS 7 is fitted with a robust short-blade LFP battery integrated into the vehicle’s structure via Cell-to-Body (CTB) technology. Recently, the Aegis battery used in the e.MAS 7 survived being run over by a 36-tonne tank without any safety failure, a testament to its exceptional durability.
This follows the “6 Devil” test, which subjects the battery to extreme fire, flood, freeze, crush, scrape, and crash conditions. With nearly a million units in use globally and no cases of spontaneous combustion, the Aegis battery sets a new benchmark in EV safety.
To encourage adoption, PRO-NET is offering an RM5,000 trade-in bonus for customers upgrading to the e.MAS 7, with prices starting from RM105,800. Both Prime and Premium variants are available for immediate delivery.
