SoyaCincau's Malaysian EV Buyer's Guide - October 2023 ...
SoyaCincau's Malaysian EV Buyer's Guide - October 2023
Since the last edition of SoyaCincau.com’s EV Buyer’s Guide published back in May, the landscape of electric vehicles (EVs) in Malaysia has changed considerably. As of September 2023, over 7,500 EV units have been registered this year – a remarkable figure that exceeds the total registrations from the entire previous year.
While the overall number is still modest when compared to the more than 520,000 vehicles registered with JPJ in the same timeframe, it signals a positive shift in the local EV market. Notably, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced plans for the Malaysian government to adopt EVs as official cars in his Budget speech, highlighting the commitment to promoting electric mobility in the country.
The variety of EVs available on the Malaysian market has surged as well. The previous buyer's guide featured a mere 15 models, while October 2023 boasts an impressive lineup of 70 electric vehicles from 15 different automakers currently available in Malaysia.
With such a vast array of options, potential buyers may contemplate several factors before making a choice, particularly which models deliver the best range. Conversely, some may prioritize racy performance and exhilarating acceleration, a common trait in electric vehicles.
The Range Masters
When discussing range, the Mercedes EQS 500 4MATIC sits at the top, offering a WLTP-rated range of 696km. This means it can travel the distance from Penang Bridge to Johor Causeway on a single charge. It is commendable that this model is being locally assembled at the Mercedes plant in Pekan, Pahang, although it comes with a significant price tag of RM648,888, placing it firmly within the Ultra Luxury category.
Another noteworthy contender is the Mercedes EQE 350+, which boasts a range exceeding 600km, with a more accessible price point of RM419,888, making it the least expensive model in our Luxury category. The Tesla Model 3 Highland AWD Long Range and Hyundai Ioniq 6 Max RWD are leading options within the Premium classification, both of which provide outstanding range, but Tesla stands out in terms of performance relative to its price.
The Speed Demons
The allure of EVs isn't solely based on eco-friendliness; performance is a significant motivating factor for many buyers. The Porsche Taycan Turbo S is a dominant force in this domain – equipped with 617hp as standard, it can unleash up to 751hp via Launch Control, reaching 100km/h in a mere 2.5 seconds. The starting price of RM999,000 may deter some, but those seriously interested in high performance in an EV will find the Taycan Turbo S hard to resist.
If you seek speed without shelling out over RM200,000, the Tesla Model 3 Highland RWD presents the best performance option under this price threshold, achieving 0-100km/h in 6.1 seconds.
The Value Kings
Value isn't solely about price; it entails judging the features and specifications of each option. Currently, the Neta V is the most affordable EV on the market, available for RM100,000, but for a marginally higher price of RM100,530, the BYD Dolphin Dynamic Standard provides superior range and a more powerful output with its 44.9kWh battery.
For a more well-rounded vehicle, consider the BYD Dolphin Premium Extended variant, offering enhanced performance and the promise of remarkable value for those seeking a balance between cost and features.
Exciting Additions Coming Soon
Despite the already diverse selection of 70 models, new electric vehicles are set to reach the Malaysian shores soon. Anticipated models include the Smart #1 Brabus and Maxus MIFA 9, the first fully electric MPV in the country, scheduled to debut later this year.
This is a thrilling time for Malaysia's automotive market, with growing interest and investment in electric mobility ushering in new possibilities for consumers.
To delve deeper into the features of the NETA V, visit the provided link.
If you're curious about more economical options, check out the BYD Seagull car, an exciting addition to the EV market.