Summary
The Proton eMas 7 is a notable electric SUV that was officially launched in the preceding year and has become a significant player in Malaysia’s EV market. Known for its top speed and advanced features, the vehicle’s performance is continually enhanced through Over-The-Air (OTA) updates, ensuring continual improvements in areas such as the infotainment system, vehicle dynamics, and security features. An issue with the Proton eMas 7’s radio memory settings was identified post-launch, leading to the development of an OTA update to address this and other concerns, highlighting Proton’s commitment to user experience and advanced vehicle technology.
The OTA updates, including the recent Flyme Auto S version 1.1.4 firmware update, are handled through a rigorous process to ensure optimal performance and compliance with regulatory standards. These updates have addressed issues like the radio memory glitch and 4G connectivity problems, proving to be a significant tool in enhancing the driving experience and overall vehicle functionality.
The introduction of such updates, in conjunction with Proton’s strategic partnerships with industry giants like Qualcomm and Microsoft, has helped enhance its digital cockpit, advanced systems, and AI-enabled features. As a result, the Proton eMas 7 has not only retained its strong standing in the EV market, despite initial challenges but also shown how technological advancements can improve user experience and streamline vehicle maintenance.
The Proton eMas 7’s radio memory glitch and its subsequent resolution through the Flyme Auto S version 1.1.4 firmware update, despite being a challenge, has underscored Proton’s dedication to customer satisfaction and product quality. Furthermore, the ability of Proton eMas 7 to deliver OTA updates reflects the trend towards software-defined vehicles, indicating its role in the wider Electric Vehicle (EV) market.
Proton eMas 7 EV
The Proton eMas 7, an electric SUV, was officially launched at the end of the previous year. It has since become a significant player in Malaysia’s EV market, topping the sales chart in January 2025.
The Proton eMas 7 EV has two variants, both of which deliver a top speed of 175 km/h. However, they differ in acceleration; the Prime variant takes 6.9 seconds to go from 0-100 km/h, while the Premium variant takes 7.1 seconds. The total output of the SUV is 218 hp (160 kW) and it has 320 Nm of torque.
Modern car manufacturers, including Proton, often introduce new features and improvements via Over-The-Air (OTA) updates, which allows for continuous improvement and customization. These updates cover various areas such as the infotainment system, driving assistance tools, vehicle dynamics, and security features. To ensure the safety and security of the vehicle and its systems, Proton adheres to specific standards such as ISO/SAE 21434 and UNECE R155/R156, which guide the process of software updates and their management.
Proton aims to enhance its digital cockpit, advanced systems, AI-enabled features, and advanced driver assistance systems through strategic partnerships with industry giants such as Qualcomm and Microsoft.
Identification of Radio Memory Glitch
The Proton eMas 7 had encountered an issue with its infotainment system. The radio frequency memory settings on this system had a glitch where they would reset every time the vehicle was restarted. Proton recognized this issue and it was announced at a customer event that a fix was being actively worked on to enable the retention of customers’ radio presets. In addition to this, Proton has also addressed other complaints from the eMas 7 owners, such as issues with the 4G connectivity and the ‘ice cream van’ sound. As a result, the issues with 4G connectivity have been resolved, and a change to the sound is currently under review.
Flyme Auto S Version 1.1.4 Firmware Update
Proton distributor Pro-Net rolled out the Flyme Auto S version 1.1.4 firmware update over-the-air (OTA) for the eMas 7 EV. The update process is prepared by the automaker using advanced Product Lifecycle Management systems to automate the creation of update packages. This update improves not only safety features and performance metrics but also ensures the vehicles’ compliance with the latest regulations and smart city integrations.
One of the notable updates is the fix on the radio frequency memory settings in the Proton eMas 7’s infotainment system. Additionally, the team has acknowledged the feedback regarding the “ice-cream van sound,” and are actively working on refinements to this feature. The OTA update for eMas 7 EV is not immediately available to early adopters. However, future updates promise to resolve key pain-points identified by customers and introduce new features.
Reception of the Flyme Auto S Version 1.1.4 Firmware Update
The Flyme Auto S version 1.1.4 firmware update was released by Pro-Net for Proton’s eMas 7 EV. This update was transmitted over-the-air, a method that has become a mainstay in automotive software updates, offering benefits that enhance vehicle maintenance and user experience. One of the major improvements noted in the update is the fix on the radio frequency presets of the Proton eMas 7. The reception of the update has been positive among the eMas 7 owner community groups, who have reported noticeable improvements.
The Role of Proton eMas 7 OTA Updates in the Wider EV Market
Over-The-Air (OTA) updates are a growing trend in the automotive industry. At its most fundamental level, an OTA update enables carmakers to transmit software updates to vehicles via Wi-Fi or cellular networks, typically handled by the vehicle’s Telematics Control Unit (TCU). This capability is crucial for autonomous vehicles which require regular software updates to refine decision-making algorithms, enhance safety systems, and introduce new features. The Proton eMas 7’s use of OTA updates is a testament to the ongoing innovation shaping the future of automotive engineering and user convenience, and an indication of its role in the wider Electric Vehicle (EV) market.
Impact of Radio Memory Glitch and Its Resolution on Proton eMas 7’s Sales and Reputation
Despite the radio frequency memory settings glitch, the Proton eMas 7 has been top of Malaysia’s EV sales chart in January 2025, outperforming rivals such as the BYD Sealion 7 and the M6. The vehicle is well-equipped with a strong output of 218 hp (160 kW) and 320 Nm of torque, and a maximum speed of 175 km/h. These features, along with additional ones such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, make it a competitive offering in the EV market.
The introduction of the Flyme Auto S version 1.1.4 firmware is expected to greatly improve the user experience of Proton eMas 7’s infotainment system. Even though the Proton eMas 7 faced minor challenges, it continues to be a popular choice among consumers due to its excellent performance, tech, and competitive price compared to other vehicles in the market such as the Honda HR-V and Toyota Corolla Cross. The prompt address of the radio memory glitch by Proton further underlines its commitment to customer satisfaction and product quality.
