Malaysian Automaker Perodua Debuts First EV, Priced At $19K
- ByStartupStory | December 1, 2025
QV-E Hatchback Launches With BaaS Model, 400 Km Range And Local Assembly
Perodua, Malaysia’s largest carmaker, has unveiled the QV-E, its first fully electric vehicle branded as the “first 100% Malaysian EV,” with a starting price capped at RM80,000 (approximately $19,000 USD). Launched by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at the end of November 2025, the fastback hatchback targets mass-market adoption through a pioneering Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model, where buyers purchase the vehicle body for RM80,000 while leasing the battery for around RM200 monthly. This structure addresses EV depreciation fears, guaranteeing future resale value akin to luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz.
Designed and developed in-house by Perodua with intellectual property ownership, the QV-E emphasizes local innovation: over 30% assembled at the new Rawang factory initially, scaling to 50%+ local content by mid-2026 via Malaysian-made motors, control systems, and body structures. Powered by CATL LFP batteries (the sole Chinese component), it delivers up to 400 km range, 0-100 km/h in 6-7 seconds, and a 160 km/h top speed—outpacing rivals like Proton’s e.MAS 5 in performance metrics.
Affordable Entry With Super App Integration
The QV-E positions as Malaysia’s “people’s EV,” undercutting imported models while competing directly with Proton e.MAS 5 (RM57,000–70,000 post-rebates). Monthly production ramps from 500 to 2,500 units, distributed via select dealerships initially. Perodua’s P-Circle super app centralizes ownership: OTA updates, charging locator, service booking, and BaaS management, with a nine-year battery warranty and unique ID tracking for security.
Interiors feature minimalist design with a large central touchscreen, dual-zone AC, panoramic roof, and ventilated seats. Safety includes advanced driver aids, aligning with Perodua’s reputation for reliability. No sub-brand like Proton’s e.MAS—QV-E integrates into the core lineup, leveraging 300+ service centers nationwide.
Strategic Push Amid EV Market Surge
Perodua’s entry accelerates Malaysia’s NEV roadmap, targeting 15% EV penetration by 2030 amid 289% sales growth in 2025 (61,000+ units). Government incentives cap excise duties at 15% for local EVs under RM150,000, fueling affordability. CEO Datuk Seri Zainal Abidin Ahmad emphasized ecosystem building: “From hands of Malaysians comes the power to move Malaysia,” positioning QV-E as a national agenda milestone.
Rivals include BYD Atto 3 (RM150,000+), Chery Omoda E5 (RM120,000), and Proton e.MAS 7 (RM100,000+). Perodua differentiates via BaaS (no upfront battery cost), GFV resale protection, and unmatched service density—critical for first-time EV buyers wary of range anxiety.
Production And Rollout Details
Pilot production completed homologation ahead of schedule, with test drives from mid-November. Launch teaser highlighted “electric mobility for all,” contrasting imported CBUs. Rawang facility supports modular scaling, eyeing exports to ASEAN.
Challenges: charging infrastructure (aiming 10,000 points by 2025) and BaaS acceptance. Perodua mitigates via partnerships and education campaigns. Long-term, QV-E seeds a full EV lineup, blending affordability with sustainability.
This debut cements Perodua’s pivot from ICE dominance (50% market share) to electrification, democratizing green mobility for everyday Malaysians. With RM80,000 entry and local roots, QV-E could redefine mass EV adoption in Southeast Asia.
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