The global transition to electric vehicles (EVs) has been a slow burn, but the shift is now unmistakably transforming the automotive landscape.
Malaysia, too, is riding this wave of change. Despite a lingering preference for internal combustion engines (ICE), recent data reveals that Malaysians are increasingly embracing EVs.
BYD Overtakes Tesla
According to the Road Transport Department (JPJ), EV registrations in Malaysia surged in 2024, surpassing 13,000 units—a notable jump from 2023.
Leading the charge is BYD, registering an impressive 8,750 units and eclipsing Tesla, which managed 5,137 units.
BYD’s success is attributed to its broader range of five models available in the market, compared to Tesla’s two.
Top Players in the Market
BMW secured third place with 1,975 units, becoming one of the few brands to cross the 1,000-unit threshold.
MINI, a BMW Group subsidiary, experienced a late surge, ending the year with 637 units, thanks to the new electric Cooper and Countryman models.
Other Key Contenders
Great Wall Motor’s Ora EV sub-brand ranked fifth with 615 units, closely followed by Smart with 603 units. MG, which ramped up deliveries from April, secured seventh place with 592 units.
Volvo claimed the eighth spot with 583 units, trailed by Chery (553 units) and Mercedes-Benz (496 units). Porsche registered 405 units, while Xpeng, despite entering the market mid-year, reached 397 units.
Brands Under 300 Units
Neta (271 units), Lotus (222 units), Hyundai (151 units), Maxus (110 units), and Audi (102 units) all fell under the 300-unit mark. GAC, Zeekr, and Lexus rounded out the top 20, with 80, 75, and 52 units, respectively.
A Shift in Preferences
The growing numbers indicate a shift in consumer preferences, with EVs gaining momentum in Malaysia.
BYD’s ascendancy, along with a strong showing from various international brands, underscores a broader acceptance of electric mobility across the nation.
As the EV market continues to expand, Malaysia is poised to play a significant role in the ongoing global automotive transformation.
Source: Paultan
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