The automotive landscape in Malaysia has entered a new era with the launch of the Perodua QV-E, the country’s first fully homegrown electric vehicle. Unveiled on December 1, 2025, the QV-E represents not just a new model but a bold national agenda to make electric mobility accessible, sustainable, and proudly Malaysian.
Design and Identity
The QV-E—short for Quest for Visionary Electric Vehicle—is styled as a sporty hatchback with a modern, futuristic appeal. Its design features include:
- Full-width LED daytime running lights at the front for a sleek look
- Sculpted bonnet and aerodynamic lines that enhance efficiency
- Full-width tail lights at the rear, giving it a distinctive signature
- Compact yet practical proportions, ideal for urban driving
This design language signals Perodua’s ambition to compete not only locally but also regionally in the EV market.
Performance and Range
Under the hood, the QV-E packs impressive specifications for its price point:
- 201 hp electric motor delivering brisk acceleration
- 0–100 km/h in 7.5 seconds, competitive with many mid-range EVs
- 445 km range (NEDC cycle), sufficient for daily commutes and longer trips
- Top speed of 160 km/h, balancing efficiency with practicality
These figures make the QV-E a compelling option for first-time EV buyers who want performance without breaking the bank.
Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) Innovation
Perhaps the most groundbreaking aspect of the QV-E is its Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model—the first of its kind in Malaysia. Instead of buying the battery outright, owners lease it for RM275 per month (excluding SST) under a fixed nine-year contract.
Benefits of BaaS include:
- Lower upfront cost: The car itself is priced at RM80,000 without the battery
- Guaranteed resale value: Perodua manages battery replacements, ensuring long-term confidence
- Sustainability: Batteries are recycled and managed centrally, reducing environmental impact
This approach directly addresses two major EV ownership concerns: battery degradation and resale value.
Safety First
The QV-E has already proven its credentials by scoring a 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating, with 88.36 points—beating rivals like the Toyota Yaris Cross. Safety features include:
- Six airbags for comprehensive protection
- Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) suite, including adaptive cruise control and collision avoidance
- Stable frontal compartment in crash tests, ensuring structural integrity
This makes the QV-E not only affordable but also one of the safest EVs in its class.
Ecosystem and Connectivity
Perodua has gone beyond just building a car. The QV-E is supported by a suite of smart technologies:
- P-Circle app for managing charging and vehicle data
- P-Charge Mobile “powerbank” for portable charging solutions
- P-Go smartwatch integration for seamless connectivity
- AC wallbox with CCTV and screen for secure home charging
This ecosystem ensures that QV-E owners enjoy a holistic EV experience, from charging convenience to digital integration.
National Significance
The launch of the QV-E is more than a commercial milestone—it’s a national achievement. Unlike Proton’s Geely-based EVs, the QV-E is fully developed in Malaysia, with input from Magna Steyr for engineering. It symbolizes Malaysia’s capability to innovate independently in the EV space.
Conclusion
The Perodua QV-E is a game-changer for Malaysia’s automotive industry. With its affordable pricing, innovative battery leasing model, strong performance, and 5-star safety rating, it sets a new benchmark for accessible electric mobility.
For Malaysian consumers, the QV-E offers not just a car but a vision of a sustainable future. It’s proof that electric vehicles can be practical, affordable, and proudly local.
About the Author
