JOHOR BAHRU – For many drivers in Malaysia, the prospect of owning an electric vehicle (EV) is becoming increasingly attractive, yet several hurdles continue to impede wider adoption. When restaurateur Wong Weng Kong, a devoted Toyota fan, sought a new car, he found current options uninspiring. However, a friend's suggestion led him to explore EVs, and after a memorable test drive of the BYD Atto 3 in June 2023, he was sold. "It felt like driving a spaceship," he said, marveling at the EV's quietness and smooth acceleration.

Despite his initial enthusiasm – he later bought a BYD Dolphin for his son – Wong's plans for a third EV have been hampered by a lack of parking space at home, amidst his collection of petrol and diesel cars. However, he's not alone; Malaysia has seen a significant surge in EV registrations, jumping 63.8% to 21,789 in 2024, thanks to government incentives introduced in 2022.

The entry of major players such as BYD and Tesla has further fueled interest. Tesla owner Ebi Azly Abdullah, who enjoys the long-range capabilities of the Model 3, highlights not only its performance but also the convenience it offers, allowing him to handle work meetings and leisure easily.

But as consumer interest in EVs grows, lingering questions about battery costs and resale values remain. Reviews show that many local drivers are deterred by low pre-owned EV prices. The BYD Atto 3, for instance, can depreciate by as much as 40% in just a year, raising concerns about long-term investments in EVs.

Costs extend beyond the initial purchase price. While manufacturers like BYD and Tesla offer warranties for batteries up to eight years, post-warranty replacement remains uncertain. Estimates suggest battery replacements could cost upwards of RM20,000, but prices are expected to decline as technology advances.

The attractiveness of petrol cars is reinforced by Malaysia's current petrol prices, which remain some of the lowest in the world. The bestselling car in 2024 was the Perodua Bezza, a petrol variant priced at a much lower entry point compared to EVs, which start around RM100,000. With a median salary of RM2,745 per month, many Malaysians find electrics inaccessible.

Yet, alternatives are gradually emerging. For instance, Ms. Pan Xinyi, a 24-year-old real estate agent, purchased a BYD Seal Premium for RM181,000. She believes that despite the up-front cost, the long-term savings on fuel and tax exemptions make EVs a sensible choice.

In addition to affordability, infrastructure challenges loom. Though Malaysia aims to install 10,000 charging bays by 2025, current operations primarily exist in urban centers, making long-distance travel a planning exercise. Ebi noted the need for more readily accessible charging stations to alleviate range anxiety.

Local manufacturers are also starting to enter the EV market. Proton's e.MAS is already witnessing strong pre-order demand, while Perodua’s upcoming eMO-I aims to be the cheapest EV option.

The government's roadmap envisions EVs making up 20% of new vehicle sales by 2030. However, this trajectory hinges on a concerted effort to phase out substantial petrol subsidies and bolster EV infrastructure. As Malaysia aims to redefine its automotive landscape, it remains to be seen if enthusiasm will overcome the practical barriers holding back potential EV owners.

With major players making headway and consumers like Wong relishing the electric drive experience, the future of the EV industry in Malaysia could spark an exciting transformation in the years to come. Are Malaysians ready to embrace the electric revolution, or will the hurdles prove insurmountable? Only time will tell!