MALAYSIA is inching a step closer towards having its first very own electric vehicle (EV). 

Perodua has unveiled its eMO-II (pronounced as M-O-2), which is on display at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show 2024 (KLIMS 2024).

Dubbed as the next evolution of the company's prototype battery EV, Perodua's latest prototype has more refined styling where it incorporates 21st century aesthetics with Malaysian uniqueness. 

Its design is based on the Malaysia ‘songket’ that is complemented by seamlessly integrated LED lights.

The EV project was fully developed in-house by Perodua Research and Development team in 2023. 

“This prototype is the continuation of our EV journey as we continue to build this technology from the ground up. eMO-II has been improved from its predecessor in terms of styling and features, and it’s now more defined as we chart our EV future.

“Please keep in mind that this is still a prototype model and there are plenty of other features and improvements that we will add to our finished product, which we will introduce in the near future," said Perodua president and chief executive officer Datuk Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad.

“It has been a steep learning curve for our team as we have engaged numerous consultants to understand the inner workings of an EV, but I am happy to say that our team have managed to keep our timeline and be able to continue our story here today. 

“We are very excited to share this story with you and we will give you further updates in the near future,” he added.

To add, Zainal said that Perodua is also working with several Malaysian corporations to ensure “greater mobility” for all its customers.

“Greater mobility means that we take into consideration all aspects of EV ownership to ensure that our customers find the car to be efficient, friendly and easy to use, complete with supporting infrastructure by Malaysia’s best.

“Most importantly, I wish to thank the government, especially the Prime Minister and MITI for supporting this project and by doing so, supporting the entire Malaysian automotive ecosystem as we enter the EV world.

“We understand that electrification goes beyond more than just a new way to drive but it represents our effort in fighting climate change by reducing our carbon footprint. We support this mission and will do our best to make this a reality,” he said. 

Perodua is also featuring its Ativa Fuze concept in addition to the eMO-II at KLIMS 2024, as well as Perodua’s journey over the past 30 years during the event. 

KLIMS 2024 is held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) across two levels from Dec 5-11.