PROTON Holdings Bhd has confirmed i-HEV intelligent hybrid system as the official name of its new hybrid technology, which will debut in the national carmaker’s upcoming model, codenamed AMA 02.
The system combines a petrol engine developed specifically for hybrid use, two electric motors and an energy management system to improve fuel efficiency while retaining the convenience of conventional refuelling.
The announcement gives Proton’s next-generation hybrid technology a formal identity following earlier showcases at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show and Global Automotive Technology Expo.
At its core is a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre dedicated hybrid engine producing 111 PS and 136 Nm of torque.
Proton said the engine achieves a peak thermal efficiency of 46.5 per cent.
The engine uses the Atkinson combustion cycle, which prioritises fuel efficiency, alongside a 14:1 compression ratio, water-cooled exhaust gas recirculation and other systems designed to reduce energy losses.
While such engines typically prioritise efficiency over outright power, the electric drive system provides additional response during acceleration and when moving off.
“Malaysian car buyers want technology that makes their daily journeys easier,” said Proton deputy chief executive officer Datuk Ir Abdul Rashid Musa.
“With i-HEV, we are bringing together fuel efficiency, responsive performance and the convenience of a hybrid system that requires no external charging,” he added.
The system uses a dedicated hybrid Transmission incorporating two electric motors, known as P1 and P3.
The P1 motor starts the engine and generates electricity, while the P3 motor drives the vehicle and recovers energy during deceleration.
The main driving motor delivers up to 163 PS and 220 Nm.
A power control module coordinates the engine, motors and battery, automatically switching between four operating modes depending on speed, power demand and battery conditions.
These comprise EV mode, where the vehicle runs on electric power when conditions permit; Series mode, where the petrol engine generates electricity; Parallel mode, where the engine and motor work together; and Direct Drive mode, where the engine drives the wheels directly when this is more efficient.
The system uses a 1.38 kWh battery, with regenerative braking recovering energy during deceleration.
The battery can also be charged by the engine through the generator, eliminating the need for external charging.
Proton said the technology targets motorists seeking electrified driving benefits without needing access to home or public chargers.
The introduction of i-HEV also forms part of the carmaker’s broader effort to build local electrified powertrain capabilities.
Its Tanjung Malim operations are involved in producing and assembling hybrid engines, dedicated hybrid transmissions and electric drive units.
“With the i-HEV intelligent hybrid system, Proton’s focus is on delivering benefits customers can understand and experience,” Abdul Rashid said.