KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 1 — Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua) today launched its first battery electric vehicle (EV), the QV-E, priced at RM80,000 (without insurance and excluding battery), as part of its efforts to develop a sustainable EV ecosystem.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the QV-E, which stands for “Quest for Visionary Electric Vehicle”, incurred a development cost of RM800 million and involved more than 100 local experts.
He noted that under the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP) launched on September 1, 2023, Perodua was appointed champion and leader among local automotive manufacturers to develop the EV ecosystem.
“That clear direction required Perodua to accomplish an EV launch, and at the time I felt somewhat anxious as I thought the target was too ambitious and that we might not yet have sufficient local skills and expertise.
“But today, I am very proud, not only of this Perodua EV launch, but also because it was produced through the expertise, discipline, hard work, and perseverance of local talents,” he said in his speech at the QV-E launch here today.
Also present was Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
Anwar said that through determination, discipline, and self-confidence, all Malaysians, not only Perodua, can boost the standing of this nation.
He highlighted that Perodua has been operating for 32 years, fulfilling its mandate and leading the nation’s aspirations in the industrial field, technology, and skills.
“The cooperation provided especially by the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (MITI) and the entire MITI family is commendable, as they have taken a more positive approach with the goal of advancing the aspirations of the Madani nation and in prioritising the key principles to fulfil the responsibilities regarding Perodua.
“That is why this is not an ordinary launch. It is a special launch for our country. When foreign trading partners are reluctant to transfer technology quickly, this would naturally raise concerns and uncertainties among us,” he said.
Anwar said Perodua has proven that despite obstacles due to slow or limited technology transfer, there is in fact domestic strength within Perodua, local universities, educators, and local scientists.
According to him, Malaysia is now rising to a new level in EV development, strengthened through various digital facilities and initiatives, making local vehicles more modern, hi-tech, and competitive with other industry players.
Anwar added that the government will continue to redouble efforts to promote and seek markets both domestically and internationally, and he is prepared to play the role of a “Perodua agent” during every official visit to support the expansion of the national automotive industry.
Earlier, Perodua president and chief executive officer Datuk Seri Zainal Abidin Ahmad said that so far, 52 Malaysian companies have supplied auto components for the QV-E, and Perodua plans to increase the number to 70 vendors by 2030.
He said Perodua was able to produce its EV in 28 months led by MITI and with the support of various ministries and government agencies.
Zainal Abidin said Perodua’s newest manufacturing facility, the Smart Mobility Plant, can produce 500 QV-E units a month currently, and will be able to offer 3,000 units a month by the third quarter of 2026.
“This creative development journey began with collaboration with several local universities, and this effort aims to ensure that human capital development, especially skills in electric power systems, battery technology, and design, progresses in line with new technologies.
“All the features within the QV-E were created with the latest functionality, advanced safety aspects, and user comfort based on a detailed study conducted by our research and development Department,” Zainal added.
He said the main target buyers consist of the middle-income earners, as well as those seeking a second car or a replacement car for daily use or weekend trips.
“Perodua is also introducing a battery leasing concept known as ‘battery as a service’, whereby the battery is sold separately from the car’s body.
“This concept provides a solution to the owners’ anxiety when owning a battery EV. By offering this service, we will be able to offer a lifetime battery guarantee for our customers’ peace of mind,” Zainal said.
The QV-E comes in two colours — Ice Blue and Caviar Grey — and is available at select Perodua outlets.
