RAWANG: Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua) will launch its first electric vehicle (EV) that meets national requirements at the end of this month, according to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said the launch of Perodua’s fully Malaysian-made EV will be part of the national agenda.
"The EV to be launched will be affordable, meet national requirements and able to stimulate the economy,” he said during an engagement session with Perodua staff here today.
The Prime Minister said the launch reflects the strength of domestic research and development (R&D) as well as workforce.
"The EV launch is proof that the automotive company not only has excellent R&D team expertise but is also very disciplined in terms of management and good governance,” he said.
Hence, Anwar added, the MADANI Government and Malaysians will give their full support to Perodua.
Earlier, in his speech, Perodua president and chief executive officer Datuk Seri Zainal Abidin Ahmad said the company has produced 5.5 million units of vehicles during its 32 years of operation.
"We have also invested RM13.4 billion since 1993 and Perodua is also preparing to overcome challenges in the future and invest in EV models,” he said.
In May, Perodua was reported as saying that in the early stage, the first EV will be over 30 per cent locally assembled at its new factory in Rawang and will be priced under RM80,000.
It said that with initial production expected to be 500 units per month, the EV will be targeted at young buyers and small families who will enjoy the affordable EV driving experience. - Bernama
