Perodua's electric leap - Affordable EV set for 2025 unveiling, to be part of new-gen Myvi lineup?

In a significant move towards sustainable mobility, Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua), Malaysia's renowned car manufacturer, is gearing up to launch an affordable electric vehicle (EV) by the end of 2025, with a price tag below RM100,000. This initiative aligns with the Malaysian government's New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), positioning Perodua at the forefront of the country's transition to electric mobility.

The unveiling of Perodua's electrification project by MITI Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, with Perodua CEO Datuk Zainal Abidin Ahmad who seemed to be present with him in Milan, has made waves in the automotive sector. This marks a significant transition for Perodua, steering away from its traditional focus on internal combustion engines towards electric vehicles. This strategic move is a nod to the global push for reducing carbon emissions and fostering sustainable transportation practices.

Perodua's ambitious plan involves a collaboration with an international automotive company to develop a prototype for the affordable EV. This partnership should combine Perodua's deep understanding of the local market with the technological prowess of a global player, ensuring the development of an EV that is not only cost-effective but also well-suited to Malaysian roads and consumer preferences.

This venture into electric mobility is part of a broader vision by the Malaysian government to transform the country into a regional hub for EV manufacturing and innovation. Under the NIMP 2030, the government has set a target for EVs and hybrid vehicles to account for 20% of new car sales by 2030. Perodua, with its extensive reach and popularity in the Malaysian market, is expected to play a critical role in achieving this target.

The government is also actively promoting the adoption of EVs through various incentives, such as tax exemptions for locally assembled (CKD) EVs until the end of 2027 and for fully imported (CBU) models until the end of 2025. These measures are expected to lower the entry barrier for EVs in the Malaysian market, making them more accessible to a broader segment of the population.

The company is focused on ensuring that the vehicle meets the high standards of quality, safety, and performance that customers expect from the brand. In addition to offering an affordable price point, the EV is expected to feature advanced technologies and innovations that align with global trends in electric mobility.

Perodua's move into the EV market is also seen as a response to the growing environmental consciousness among consumers and the Malaysian government's commitment to reducing carbon emissions. By introducing an affordable EV, Perodua is making a statement about its commitment to sustainable practices and its role in shaping the future of transportation in Malaysia.

According to Wapcar, Perodua's foray into the electric vehicle market might also signal an exciting development for its popular Myvi model. There's speculation that this EV initiative could introduce a next-generation Myvi, potentially featuring a battery electric vehicle (BEV) variant.

This move makes sense and would align with global automotive trends and Perodua's commitment to innovation, potentially offering a more environmentally friendly option to the Myvi lineup.

A BEV version of the Myvi would represent a significant step for Perodua in expanding its electric vehicle offerings and meeting the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions.

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