Why are Malaysians still buying EVs in 2026? | Let's Talk About #138

Electric vehicle (EV) adoption in Malaysia continues to grow even as the automotive market shows signs of slowing down in 2026. In the latest episode of Let’s Talk About, Amin and Alex discuss why Malaysians are still buying EVs in 2026 and what’s driving the continued momentum.

Despite the end of tax incentives for fully imported EVs, registrations are still increasing. Much of the growth is now driven by more affordable EV options such as the Proton e.MAS 5.

Another notable trend is the growing number of brands introducing CKD (locally assembled) EVs in Malaysia. With more carmakers announcing plans to locally assemble EVs, Malaysians can look forward to see more competitively priced models in the near future, which could further accelerate EV adoption.

Alex also shares his experience travelling during the Chinese New Year balik kampung season with the Tesla Model 3 Long Range RWD. Long-distance travel during peak holiday periods often acts as a real-world stress test for Malaysia’s EV charging infrastructure, and the episode touches on how the charging network performed during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

The discussion also looks at the gap between EV adoption and charging infrastructure. While EV registrations have been growing rapidly, the expansion of EV chargers along the highways has not kept pace. Amin and Alex discuss whether this imbalance could become a problem if EV adoption continues to accelerate.

The episode also explores a recent suggestion from a minister that EV importers should also build EV charging infrastructure. Does that approach make sense for the market, or could it create unintended challenges for EV brands entering Malaysia?

Finally, the conversation also touches on the latest developments around Perodua’s first EV, the QV-E. It recently registered its first delivery in 2026 with just one unit registered in February 2026.

Watch the full discussion below: