Perodua introduces app-based car rental service at selected local universities under its “Mobility as a Lifestyle” initiative

Earlier today, Perodua announced that it has partnered with three local universities, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology) to introduce an app-based car-rental service designed specifically for students and university staff. The application,  called UCar-e (pronounced as ‘You Car”), is Perodua’s latest initiative under its “Mobility as a Lifestyle” concept, which focuses on transforming the driving experience from conventional vehicle ownership into a more service-oriented mobility solution.

Recently, Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad. launched UCar-e initiative at Inasis Perodua, UUM, in a ceremony also attended by UUM Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Ahmad Martadha Mohamed. He explained that the UCar-e application enables users to locate vehicles parked at designated locations within the campus. Users are also provided with specific parking zones where the vehicles can be returned after use. 

This is somewhat like the services that we get from companies like SoCar where you can get cars to rent at an hourly rate. The UCar-e service is something like this, but you only get Perodua. It could be the future as even Perodua realises a shift in vehicle usage and ownership practices. 

Dato Zainal said, "We realise that many from Gen Zs are more interested in the driving experience rather than owning a vehicle, as the maintenance costs, limited parking availability, and traffic congestion are encouraging them to seek alternative mobility solutions,” 

According to him, the introduction of UCar-e forms part of Perodua’s broader efforts to expand its automotive business through innovative mobility services aligned with evolving consumer trends and lifestyle preferences.

“We are initially providing 50 Perodua vehicles to these universities for use by students and staff, where they can book, access, and utilise the vehicles to travel from their accommodations to lecture halls within university grounds,” said  Dato’ Sri Zainal 

“We want to make this experience as simple and hassle-free as possible for students and staff. Perodua is also working closely with the respective universities to appoint students to manage the vehicles, including maintaining cleanliness, monitoring fuel level, and ensuring proper upkeep. In return, the student will receive commission-based payments,” added Dato' Zainal.

By responsibly appointing students as vehicle management agents, we are also incorporating entrepreneurship training and exposure for the younger generation, which is an essential life skill,” he explained.

He further revealed that the service is expected to begin in June 2026, with implementation taking place in stages depending on each university’s readiness and rollout schedules.