• To use the Daihatsu e-Smart system; a one-motor series-hybrid, similar to the Nissan e-Power
• Petrol engine serves to charge the high-voltage batteries that run the electric motor, runs like an EV most of the time
• Electrification that comprises hybrids as well as electric vehicles are a primary focus for Perodua in 2022

Perodua had already confirmed that the company’s direction in 2022 will comprise electrification that includes EVs and hybrids. Even people that stick those “Be patient, I’m lowered” stickers on their standard cars can figure out the first electrified Perodua will be the Perodua Ativa e-Smart Hybrid and this newly released YouTube clip is a strong indication that it’s around the corner.

With Indonesia expected to launch the Daihatsu Rocky e-Smart Hybrid later this year, the Ativa e-Smart Hybrid won’t be too far behind.

Also Read: Work underway for Perodua’s first hybrid (Ativa?) – 2023 launch, affordable price a major focus

In the video, Perodua doesn’t shy away from its sustainability practices, going green, being energy efficient and producing little to no waste. It’s good for mother nature and keeps the tree huggers at bay.

But why the sudden appearance of the video? We’re willing to bet it might be building up towards a preview of the Ativa e-Smart Hybrid.

Also Read: Never mind the Ativa, this raised-up Daihatsu Rocky e:Smart Hybrid is what you need for floods

If you’re wondering how Perodua’s hybrid system will function, well it’ll be radically different from a mild-hybrid.

Simply put, full-hybrids can be powered on electric propulsion alone while mild-hybrids utilise a smaller electric motor to assist the primary petrol engine with a torque boost. Examples of the latter include the previous Honda IMA.

The Daihatsu/Perodua setup is still primarily a very simple hybrid but a full-hybrid nonetheless as it uses the electric motor in series with the petrol engine.

Here, the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine isn’t directly connected to the wheels. Its principal function is as a generator to keep the high-voltage batteries charged and driving the electric motor that serves as the main source of propulsion most of the time.

Being an entry-level brand, Perodua can’t just launch a hybrid or EV to keep par with the market as it also needs to be affordable.

Seeing that the most expensive Perodua currently is the Aruz AV that tops out at RM 73,226 and the flagship Ativa AV isn't too far behind at RM 71,200, the next hybrid is the Honda City RS at RM 105,950.45. That should see the Ativa e-Smart Hybrid fall somewhere between those figures but closer to that of the Perodua.