Roadmap for electric vehicles in Malaysia

"The first phase which is to come up with a checklist and recommendations has been completed." "The second phase will be the pilot demonstration projects," said Chin.

He was speaking at a press conference after launching the General Electric (GE) Innovation Day 2012 and the ‘GE-Naza Electric Vehicle Experience’ here today.

Also present at the event were GE Asean CEO Stuart Dean and Naza Group of Companies corporate affairs director Zakaria Ismail.

Chin said national car maker Proton is currently conducting a two-year test with a fleet of electric vehicles in Putrajaya and results from the study are expected to be ready by next year.

"From the data obtained, the government will be able to tell where to install charging stations for electric vehicles," said Chin, adding that a possible option is for petrol stations to also include a charger for electric vehicles.

On top of identifying possible locations to install the charging stations, Chin said the ministry is also looking at ensuring that the stations will be able to accommodate different models of electric vehicles.

Asked about promoting usage of EVs among Malaysian drivers who commonly travel long-distance using their cars, Chin said there also plans to market extended-range models to Malaysia.

Proton Holdings Bhd green tech department board project director Datuk Zainuddin Che Din had reportedly said that it plans to roll out the Exora REEV by next year – an extended range EV with an on-board generator to recharge its battery-driven engines.

In order to achieve Malaysia’s target of reducing carbon emissions intensity by 40% in 2020, the government will also expand the initiative to include public transportation.

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