To buy or to wait? Experts urge caution for Malaysians considering an EV purchase
While EVs offer long-term benefits like lower running costs and environmental gains, challenges in pricing, reliability and after-sales support have made the decision more complex. As EVs gain global popularity, Malaysian consumers are left wondering whether to buy now or wait. Photo edited via Canva
Experts and users alike have voiced concerns, urging caution as the local EV ecosystem continues to develop.
Automotive expert Associate Professor Dr Nur Sabahiah Abdul Sukor from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) urged Malaysians to consider the long-term benefits of owning an EV, such as lower operating costs and a smaller environmental footprint.
She stated that high initial prices and concerns about reliability are key challenges buyers should be aware of.
'While some issues are to be expected as part of the industry's growing pains, the recurring nature of technical failures and service shortcomings indicates deeper structural problems that must be resolved.
'It is crucial for prospective EV buyers to stay informed about technological advancements, policy changes and improvements in infrastructure to make sound, future-proof decisions," she told Sinar Daily recently.
On the affordability and practicality front, Road Safety Research Centre head at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Law Teik Hua said that for many Malaysians, particularly middle-income earners living outside major cities, EVs are still a luxury rather than a practical primary option.
The high ownership cost, often exceeding RM100,000, combined with limited local experience, makes EVs a significant financial risk for many.
'While some challenges mirror typical growing pains seen in other countries' early EV adoption phases, Malaysia's situation also exposes deeper policy issues.
'These include incentives focused more on sales volume than environmental impact, a lack of strict servicing standards and insufficient consumer protections for automotive technology.
"At present, EVs mainly suit tech-savvy, higher-income urbanites with easy access to charging and maintenance.
"For the majority, it may be wiser to wait until legal frameworks, infrastructure and support systems are more fully developed," he said. EVs are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Photo edited via Canva
Piston.My Managing Editor Keshvinder Singh Dhillon said that EVs are not a one-size-fits-all solution.
For those who drive long distances, a plug-in hybrid could offer a more practical solution.
Professionals like doctors with consistent daily schedules and access to charging at work may find a fully electric vehicle to be an ideal fit.
'As technology advances, EVs will continue to evolve and find a home in more lifestyles. However, policymakers must broaden their focus beyond private ownership.
'Industrial vehicles such as planes, ships and trucks are among the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. If Malaysia is serious about achieving its zero emissions target, it must also encourage EV adoption among fleet and industrial vehicle operators," he said.
Real-Life Safety Concerns
Safety and reliability remain key concerns for many potential buyers.
In early May, two Malaysian EV owners raised public alarm over dangerous breakdowns that threatened their families' lives.
On May 1, Facebook user Nur Afifah Abdul Rahim shared a detailed account from her husband about their BYD Atto 3.
The car suddenly stopped on the Cheras-Kajang highway with a 'Power System Failure' warning, locking all four tyres without warning and causing traffic chaos.
The couple faced delayed responses and poor customer service from the dealer, who told them the cause was a faulty 12V battery not covered under warranty due to mileage.
The car was only 10 months old and no warning system had alerted them to the battery issue beforehand.
Similarly, on May 6, Facebook user HL Tan, owner of an Audi e-tron GT imported from Japan in late 2024, reported three breakdowns in just over 13,000km.
The latest occurred on the North-South Expressway while he was driving with his wife and two children.
The car shut down mid-highway amidst moving traffic.
Tan had experienced similar failures in March and just before Aidilfitri.
Despite workshop visits and part replacements, no definitive fix was found.
While praising Audi Malaysia's after-sales professionalism, Tan said Audi AG must intervene, as the car's repeated failures posed a serious safety risk.
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