Malaysia inches closer to EV goal
16 Oct 2024
A total of 6,617 battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) were sold in the first half of 2024 (1H24), up 112 per cent year-on-year (YoY), said Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz.
A total of 3,117 BEVs were sold during the same period in 2023.
Tengku Zafrul noted that the progress brings the country closer to its goal of having electric vehicles make up 20 per cent of total industry volume (TIV) by 2030.
“This remarkable growth not only signals our consumers’ growing interest, but also demonstrates Malaysians’ general buy-in to contribute to the national and global environmental agendas,” he said at the launch of Leapmotor, the latest addition to Stellantis’ portfolio in Malaysia.
He added that as of Sept 30 this year, over 171 charging stations had been installed nationwide, of which 813 were direct current (DC) fast chargers.
“We hope to reach our goal of 10,000 charging stations by end-2025,” Tengku Zafrul said.
The minister highlighted that the automotive industry continues to be a crucial driver of Malaysia’s economic growth, contributing a significant 4.0-5.0 per cent to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) each year and providing employment for more than 700,000 people.
In comparison to 2023, the sector recorded total imports valued at RM62.14 billion, with RM37.15 billion coming from the import of automotive parts and components.
“On the export side, the sector recorded a total value of RM18.01 billion, with RM13.26 billion from automotive parts exports.
“The significant disparity between imports and exports has led to a trade deficit for the sector,” he said.
Stellantis Malaysia today launched its new electric vehicle brand, Leapmotor, along with its first global offering, the Leapmotor C10 electric SUV.
The company also revealed plans for Malaysia, which include the local assembly of Stellantis brand multi-energy vehicles at its Gurun facility in Kedah, aimed at serving the Asean market.
Additionally, Stellantis said it intends to enhance the local supply chain, support talent development, and create new job opportunities.
Tengku Zafrul said this decision will significantly boost the automotive industry, facilitate advanced technology transfer and contribute to improving exports.
Source: NST
