According to data compiled by the Malaysian Automotive Association for new vehicle registrations in 2023, the total volume of electrified vehicles (fully electric and hybrid electric) was 38,214 units, including commercial vehicles. This was 4.8% of total new vehicle sales for the year.
Although the powerful Competition Commission will not allow revealing sales by model (less than 12 months), it is possible to deduce the number EVs sold based on the sales of each brand as well as some information mentioned by certain companies.
BYD delivered 3,728 EVs
Among fully electric vehicles, Sime Darby Beyond Auto, the distributor of the BYD brand from China, reported total sales of 3,728 units for the year. As its range consists of only fully electric models (the ATTO 3 and Dolphin), this would be the highest number of EVs in the market by a single brand.
Honda leader in electrified vehicles
Among electrified vehicles, Honda Malaysia would be the leader as it reported over 7,700 units for its e:HEV hybrid electric versions of the City, Civic and HR-V. UMW Toyota Motor, which has two electrified models (Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid and Innova Zenix) produced around 6,700 units during the year. BMW Group Malaysia, which was the first company to promote electrified vehicles, delivered more than 3,600 units.
Electrified vehicle sales to keep rising
Sales of electrified vehicles are growing, as evident by Honda’s numbers which rose to more than 7,700 units in 2023 from over 4,100 units in 2022. In 2024, sales of fully electric vehicles are expected to grow even more since they can be imported and sold tax-free. Last year, of the 38,214 units sold, 26.5% were fully electric models.
“Our achievement of the highest EV vehicle sales in 2023 reflects the strong support and trust by Malaysian consumers in BYD. Our comprehensive network of aftersales support nationwide is a key differentiator in our success. We are delighted to be able to provide exceptional services and specialised technical care to all proud BYD EV owners and growing,” said Jeffrey Gan, Managing Director, Southeast Asia, Sime Darby Motors.
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