Work in Progress, Perodua's first working EV prototype - the Myvi Conversion

On 21st May 2024, Perodua unveiled its first working electric vehicle (EV) prototype which they have officially named  as the Myvi Conversion. Unofficially, it seems that it should be called EMO-1, as we see that plastered on the doors of the concept car which was unveiled and displayed at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024 (till the 26th of May). This would be the foundation on which the Malaysian compact car manufacturer intends to base its electrification technology on.

The  Myvi based EV prototype consists of three main parts. These are the power bench, the power converter and overall styling design. What is important is that it is made in Malaysia, with only the power conversion technology development done with an Australian company. 

Interestingly, the collaboration first began in September 2022. This saw Perodua and three universities working together to develop an EV powertrain from the ground up together with assistance from the people from Australia. By doing so, the joint effort has enhanced each entity’s expertise and capabilities in the EV field.

“The power bench development is done by us (Perodua) partnering up with three local universities – Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Universiti Kuala Lumpur, and Universiti Putra Malaysia to fully understand this technology and making it our own,” said Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad who also stated that the brand wanted to make this project as Malaysian as possible.

On why Perodua's most popular hatchback was chosen, he said: “We choose the Perodua Myvi as the model of choice for this project as it is a model that has captured the imagination and attention of most Malaysians. The actual first Perodua EV will look different from what is on display here, but be assured that the day is coming."

“In the meantime, we encourage Malaysians to come to our booth at the Malaysia Auto Show 2024 to view the Perodua Myvi Conversion for yourself as well as to take part in our many campaigns.

“We will also welcome everyone to interact with our people here to find out our latest developments, such as the Perodua New Outlet Standards, an ongoing transformation effort to give you our valued customers a seamless experience at our 3S centres,” Dato’ Sri Zainal added.

The Myvi EV Concept will be on display at the Malaysia Autoshow in MAEPS, Serdang till the 26th of May 2024.. Below is also a decked out camping gear Perodua Aruz on display at the autoshow.