The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) expressed confidence that local car manufacturers will produce the first national electric vehicle (EV) by 2025, according to the Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
He stated that local car makers have undertaken research and development (R&D) initiatives, investing in the production of the country’s first EV, according to Bernama’s news report.
Tengku Zafrul shared updates on the plan, indicating MITI’s active involvement in understanding the progress. He stated that the achievability of the goal based on briefings from national car companies, expressing optimism about meeting the 2025 target.
Highlighting Proton Holdings Bhd’s commitment to EV infrastructure, Tengku Zafrul expressed confidence in achieving the goal of establishing 10,000 EV charging units nationwide by 2025.
Addressing EV affordability, Tengku Zafrul revealed the government’s proposal to encourage local assembly of completely knocked-down (CKD) units by EV manufacturers to maintain competitive prices.
He underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring that EV incentives benefit all Malaysians, promoting widespread access to EVs.
Regarding EV road tax, discussions within the National EV Steering Committee (NEVSC) have taken place, with Transport Minister Anthony Loke finalising details for an imminent announcement.
Tengku Zafrul stressed the government’s intention to democratise the use of EVs, making them accessible to a broader segment of the population.
