EV-R, EV for Rakyat to launch two CKD Chinese mini EVs with over 200 km range in Malaysia, Myvi-like price

There are almost 20 battery EV models currently on sale in Malaysia. The best-selling EV model in Malaysia is the BMW iX, which starts from RM 403.8k, with extended warranty and service package. The cheapest model however, is the China-made Ora Good Cat, priced at RM 139,800 for the entry 48 kWh / 400 km range (NEDC) variant.

None of these cars are priced low enough to make battery EVs mainstream, thus explains the public's perception that EV are impractical rich man’s toys.

According to documents sighted by WapCar.my, a Malaysian company called EVR (M) Sdn Bhd. has secured the rights to locally assemble (CKD) and distribute two affordable Chinese mini car EVs in Malaysia, with rights to export the cars to other ASEAN countries.

The localized Chinese models will carry the EV-R brand, short for EV for Rakyat, or people’s EV. The said company is now deliberating between two contract assemblers to produce the CKD EVs.

Two models are planned for a local launch, both using the latest technology LiFePO (LFP) batteries.

The cheaper of the two will have a 17.7 kWh battery and a claimed driving range of 200 km (test methodology undisclosed).

Measuring just 2,950 mm long, 1,580 mm wide, and 1,650 mm tall, with a 1,960 mm wheelbase, it is a very small car, smaller than even an Axia.

It is aimed as a commuter EV, a zero emission, almost zero-maintenance option to get you to the office, or the train station, and back. An overnight 6 to 8 hour charge will bring the range back up once more for your travel in the next day.

The higher range model is powered by a smaller 17.28 kWh battery but curiously, it has a longer 240 – 260 km driving range. The reason? The EV has roof-mounted 300 W solar panels for trickle charging. This is one car that is better to take the cheaper, outdoor parking at your office.

A full charge takes between 4 to 5 hours.

This model is a little larger, measuring 3,380 mm long, 1,550 mm wide, and 1,500 mm tall, with a 2,260 mm wheelbase. It’s still smaller than an Axia.

Charging socket type for both models have yet to be confirmed but given the low-cost nature of these cars, you can be sure that neither supports DC fast charging.

As you can already tell by the specifications, these are clearly not Teslas. In keeping with the rakyat-focused aim, the document says EV-R plans is to sell these affordable electric cars from a shopping mall, rather than a conventional 3S centre.

The base model EV-R will be priced below RM 50,000, while the larger, higher-end model with solar charging will be priced below RM 70,000.