Perodua might need a third factory for its EV production

PERODUA is currently evaluating the construction of a new plant by 2025 to support the production of the new generation Myvi, as reported by Wapcar.

As you might have known, the new generation Myvi will also feature a fully electric (EV) variant.

At present, Perodua operates two plants located in Rawang. The first plant, Perodua Manufacturing Sdn Bhd (PMSB), currently produces Alza, Aruz, and Myvi, along with the Toyota Veloz under contract.

The second plant, Perodua Global Manufacturing Sdn Bhd (PGMSB), currently manufactures Axia, Bezza, and Ativa. The third plant is referred to as the ‘BEV plant’ for electric battery vehicles.

At the same time, Perodua is exploring other options. An alternate plan is to collaborate with other manufacturers on a contract basis.

Speaking during the public unveiling of the Perodua EMO-1 concept last week, its President and CEO, Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad, said, “I cannot disrupt the current plants. They are operating at over 300,000 units (per year).”

“As I mentioned earlier, our target is to produce around 340,000 to 350,000 units. This already exceeds our normal capacity.

“So, I cannot disrupt the current plants. This EV (battery) is something we have to consider to build a new plant, or seek a partner, who has the capability in Malaysia to enable us to carry out the installations,” he added.

The new generation Perodua BEV is being developed independently, without technical assistance from Daihatsu.

Starting from scratch, this project is being carried out in collaboration with three local universities and electric vehicle conversion experts from Australia, namely EV North.

Led by chief engineer, Puan Jehan Adnan, this project utilizes a prototype with support from 60 local vendors, ensuring that Malaysia has a supply chain for domestic EV production.

Based on the Myvi, this prototype is equipped with a 55.7kWh battery pack giving it a driving range of up to 350km.

It features a single electric motor at the front wheel with an output of 161hp and 220Nm of torque.

It is understood that the first Perodua EV model is planned to be launched by the end of 2025 with a price not exceeding RM100,000.