Charge, chill, repeat. Malaysia’s EV scene is getting lit!
Electric vehicles (EVs) are slowly but surely taking over the roads in Malaysia. Whether it’s the sleek designs or the promise of cheaper running costs, many of us are getting more curious about making the switch.
But for most Malaysians, the question that stops us from considering an EV is, “How and where do I charge it?” If that’s what’s holding you back, don’t worry—you’re not alone.
The good news is, Malaysia is working hard to make sure you won’t be stranded with a dead battery in the middle of your daily commute.
Let’s break down what you need to know about EVs and how the country, along with utility companies like Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), are making charging as easy as refueling at your regular petrol station.
Why Are Electric Vehicles Gaining Popularity?
First off, let’s talk about why people are getting excited about EVs.
It’s not just because they look cool (though that certainly helps). EVs offer a bunch of benefits that are hard to ignore:
Cheaper to run: Electricity costs a lot less than petrol, and with the prices of fuel fluctuating, it’s nice to know you can charge your car overnight at home for a fraction of the cost.
Environmentally friendly: EVs have zero tailpipe emissions, which means they’re better for the environment, reducing air pollution and contributing to cleaner cities.
Less maintenance: With fewer moving parts, EVs typically require less maintenance than traditional cars. No need to worry about oil changes or engine repairs—just keep an eye on your tires and brakes.
What If I Run Out of Charge?
Now, let’s get to the real concern—charging.
If you’ve ever thought about getting an EV, you’ve probably worried about “range anxiety.” That’s the fear that your car might run out of charge before you can find a charging station.
After all, Malaysia doesn’t have as many EV charging stations as we have petrol stations… yet.
But don’t let that scare you off! Efforts are underway to build more charging stations across the country.
Whether you’re at home, in the city, or even on a long road trip, charging your EV is becoming easier than ever.
Charging at Home: Convenience at Your Fingertips
For most EV owners, home charging is the bread and butter of their routine. Imagine this: you park your car at night, plug it in, and wake up the next morning with a full battery.
It’s as simple as charging your phone. Most EVs can fully charge overnight, so you’re ready to go by the time you start your day.
Installing a home charging station is straightforward, too.
And while there’s an upfront cost to get a charging unit installed, the long-term savings on fuel more than make up for it. Plus, charging at home is usually cheaper than using public stations, especially if you take advantage.
Public Charging: More Stations Are Coming
Of course, you won’t always be charging at home. That’s where public charging comes in.
The good news is that more and more charging stations are being set up at key locations across the country.
For example, TNB has been rolling out its own Electron charging stations, with plans to install over 200 Direct Current (DC) fast chargers by 2025.
These stations are being placed at high-traffic spots like shopping malls, hotels, and highway rest stops. Here are a few places where you can already find TNB’s Electron stations:
PLUS Highway: There are 8 DC charge points along the PLUS Highway, ensuring that your long road trips are hassle-free.
AEON Big Wangsa Maju: 2 DC charge points are available here for those running errands or shopping nearby.
TNB Bangsar: You’ll find 6 DC charge points at TNB Bangsar, catering to fleet vehicles under the Joint Facility Management (JFM) system.
TNB Platinum: 18 AC charge points are ready for use at TNB Platinum, providing a convenient spot for slower, overnight charging.
With more stations planned for the future, it’s only going to get easier to charge up wherever you go.
Types of EV Chargers: Which One is Right for You?
Now that you know where to charge your EV, let’s talk about how quickly you can get back on the road.
Not all EV chargers are created equal, and understanding the different types of chargers available in Malaysia will help you make the most out of your EV experience.
Level 1 Charger
Power: 3.6 kW – 7 kW (Single-phase AC)
Range per Hour: 6 to 8 km
Best For: Single-family homes, multi-unit residential buildings, and condominiums.
Application: If you have an EV and want a simple setup at home, a Level 1 charger is a basic option that can charge your vehicle overnight. It’s slower but ideal for topping up after daily use.
Level 2 Charger
Power: 22 kW (Three-phase AC)
Range per Hour: 40 to 60 km
Best For: Single-family homes, workplaces, public areas, and fleets.
Application: Level 2 chargers are a step up from Level 1 and are more commonly found in public charging stations, workplaces, and multi-residential complexes. They offer faster charging, making them great for longer trips.
Level 3 Charger (DC Fast Charger)
Power: More than 50 kW
Range per Hour: 270+ km
Best For: Highways, public charging stations, and fleet management.
Application: If you’re on a road trip or need a quick top-up during your day, Level 3 DC fast chargers are what you’ll find along highways and major routes. These chargers can significantly cut down charging time, getting you back on the road in less than an hour.
Charging Made Easy with Technology
Charging an EV isn’t just about plugging it in and waiting. With the right technology, it’s becoming smarter and more convenient.
TNB’s Go To-U app lets you find and reserve charging stations right from your phone.
You can see which stations are available, check how long it’ll take to charge, and even book your slot so you don’t have to wait.
This app is designed to make your life easier, ensuring that you won’t waste time searching for a charging station or worrying about whether there’s an available spot when you get there.
As more stations are added, the app will continue to be a handy tool for all EV drivers.
The Future of EVs in Malaysia
As more Malaysians switch to EVs, the infrastructure will continue to grow.
The Government’s National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) includes ambitious plans to support green mobility, and companies like TNB are right in the middle of it all.
With over 36 charging stations already up and running, and hundreds more on the way, the EV revolution is happening right now.
So, if you’ve been on the fence about getting an EV, rest assured: Malaysia is poised for you.
From home charging convenience to more public stations popping up across highways and malls, charging your electric vehicle is going to be just as easy as filling up your petrol tank—maybe even easier.