He was quoted by The Malaysian Reserve (TMR) as saying that 42% of cars sold last year were in the energy-efficient vehicle (EEV) class. This is expected to increase to 50% this year.
EEVs cover all fuel types, including electricity liquefied petroleum gas, petrol and diesel cars.
Ahmad said the increase in EEVs was in line with Malaysia’s National Automotive Policy on green initiatives and the goal of establishing Malaysia as a regional EEV hub by 2020.
TMR quoted him as saying: “Our EEV policy is tailored towards meeting future demands in vehicle technology which include the need to produce skilled human resources, investments in technology and sustainable mobility.”
According to Ahmad, 90% of vehicles launched since 2015 were classified as EEVs. The Perodua Axia, which is the cheapest local model in the A-segment, is an EEV because its petrol engine is rated at five litres per 100km.
He said the government was exploring the wider use of EEVs for public transportation.
TMR also quoted Malaysia Automotive Institute CEO Madani Sahari as saying production on the country’s first electric bus was likely to begin in 2019.
“Once production starts, we will receive purchase orders from the clients and can estimate the figures,” he said.