NEVSC Wraps-Up 2024: From BEV Sales Surge to Proton e.Mas 7

The third meeting of the National EV Steering Committee (NEVSC) for 2024 was held recently at Menara MITI, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Works, YAB Dato’ Sri Fadillah Yusof. The committee emphasized Malaysia’s commitment to fostering a robust electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem, with particular focus on battery electric vehicles (BEVs).

Dato’ Sri Fadillah expressed confidence in the growing acceptance of BEVs in the local market, supported by an increasing variety of competitively priced models. “I firmly believe that BEVs will continue to attract local consumers as more models are introduced at affordable prices,” he remarked.

The transition to electrified vehicles (xEVs) in Malaysia has seen significant momentum. The sales of new xEVs in 2024 outpaced 2023, with fully electric BEVs recording remarkable growth. As of November 2024, BEV sales reached 19,147 units, a notable jump from the 13,257 units sold in 2023.

On the global front, the EV industry is expected to maintain its rapid expansion in 2024, building on record-breaking achievements in 2023. Statistics highlight a strong start to the year, with over 3 million xEVs sold in the first quarter of 2024, a significant increase compared to the same period in 2023.

Regionally, Southeast Asia has also witnessed substantial growth in xEV adoption. By September 2024, xEV sales in the region reached 247,532 units, compared to 164,264 units in 2023.

Looking ahead, Dato’ Sri Fadillah projected an even brighter future for BEVs in Malaysia, particularly with the introduction of two national EV models. Among these is Proton’s newly launched Proton e.Mas 7, unveiled by Prime Minister YAB Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on December 16. As Proton’s first electric SUV, the e.Mas 7 offers competitive pricing and attractive packages, positioning it as a game-changer in the market.

The Proton e.Mas 7 is slated for local assembly by 2027, creating significant opportunities for local vendors to enhance their capabilities in EV component manufacturing. This includes producing critical components such as batteries and motors.

“The Proton e.Mas 7 will not only strengthen Malaysia’s position in the EV market but also stimulate the growth of our local EV supply chain,” Dato’ Sri Fadillah added.

Adding to this momentum, MITI Minister, YB Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Aziz highlighted another key milestone in Malaysia’s EV journey. “The procurement of 250 electric buses by Prasarana Malaysia Berhad will create opportunities for local companies to supply domestically manufactured electric buses, further supporting the development of a local electric bus industry ecosystem,” he stated.

As Malaysia gears up for an EV-driven future, NEVSC remains committed to fostering industry growth, addressing challenges, and driving the adoption of sustainable transportation solutions.