Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the QV-E, which stands for “quest for visionary electric vehicle”, incurred a development cost of RM800 million and involved more than 100 local experts.

He said under the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, launched on Sept 1, 2023, Perodua was appointed as the champion and leader among local automotive manufacturers to develop the EV ecosystem.

“That clear direction required Perodua to accomplish an EV launch, and at the time I felt somewhat anxious as I thought the target was too ambitious and that we might not have sufficient local skills and expertise yet.

“But today, I am very proud, not only of this Perodua EV launch, but also because it was produced through the expertise, discipline, effort, and perseverance of local talents,” he said in his speech at the QV-E car launch here.

Also present was investment, trade and industry minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz.

Anwar said Perodua had proven its strength as well as that of local universities, educators and scientists despite the obstacles due to slow or limited technology transfer.

He said Malaysia was now rising to a new level in EV development, further strengthened through digital facilities and initiatives, making local vehicles more modern, high-tech and competitive with other industry players.

Anwar also said the government would redouble its efforts to promote and seek markets both domestically and internationally.