A year ago, there were about 600 charging points for electric vehicles (EVs) throughout Malaysia, and the target had been set (by the government) to reach 10,000 charging points by 2025. The most recent data shows that there are almost 1,300 charging points today, which is 13% of the target. Clearly, the pace needs to be faster as a greater visibility of charging stations will give more confidence to those contemplating buying an EV.
The government’s target is dependent on the private sector setting up the charging stations, and for those selling EVs, there is a condition that they must contribute to this effort. As the car companies are not necessarily specialised as energy providers, they are collaborating with companies that are.
Accelerate setting-up of charging stations
One of these is Sime Darby Motors (SDM) which has units selling EV models from BYD, Volvo, Hyundai, BMW, MINI, Jaguar and Porsche. It has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Gentari Sdn Bhd (through its subsidiary, Gentari Green Mobility Sdn Bhd) to accelerate the building of charging stations and infrastructure across SDM’s network as well as in other publicly accessible locations alongside other supplementary initiatives.
The MoU will entail SDM and Gentari exploring opportunities to establish EV charging stations and related EV charging infrastructure at SDM’s automotive facilities across Malaysia, as well as in SDM’s other regional markets.
Charging stations in public areas
To further enhance accessibility and convenience for customers, the MoU will also explore establishing EV charging facilities beyond SDM showrooms, such as at golf clubs, hotels, and healthcare centres, amongst other potential locations.
In addition, to encourage EV adoption amongst Malaysians, the collaboration will also look at value-added services for SDM customers. These services may include subscription plans, personalised home charging packages, portable charging services, and flexible mobile charging solutions, amongst others.
The MoU will also explore a potential partnership for EV fleet solutions, catering to the evolving needs of businesses and governments looking to transition to cleaner and more sustainable transportation alternatives.
Using solar energy
Alongside this, recognising the pivotal role of renewable energy, the MoU will also explore solar energy projects, such as solar energy system installations and solar energy storage solutions.
“This MoU underscores our commitment to shaping a sustainable future through low carbon mobility. We look forward to working with Gentari to accelerate environmentally friendly technologies and solutions for the automotive sector, particularly to support the EV eco-system which continues to grow in Malaysia,” said Jeffrey Gan, MD of Retail and Distribution of Sime Darby Motors Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, and Macau.
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