Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining momentum in Malaysia — from city streets to long-distance drives. But powering them goes beyond just plugging in. Whether you’re a new EV owner or EV-curious, this guide will walk you through the current EV charging landscape in Malaysia, including home charging options, public stations, and must-know info about EV charging cables.
- 🚘 1. Overview: EV Charging in Malaysia
- ⚡ 2. Types of EV Charging Stations
- 🏠 3. Home EV Charging in Malaysia
- 🔌 4. EV Charging Cables Explained
- 🗺️ 5. Public EV Charging Networks in Malaysia
- 💸 6. EV Charging Costs & Payment Methods
- 🎯 7. Government Incentives & Future Plans
- ❓ 8. FAQs on EV Charging in Malaysia
- ✅ Final Thoughts
🚘 1. Overview: EV Charging in Malaysia
Malaysia’s EV infrastructure is growing quickly. As of 2024, there are over 2,000 public EV charging points nationwide, with plans to reach 10,000 by the end of 2025 as per the government’s Low Carbon Mobility Blueprint.
Whether you’re in KL, Penang, Johor Bahru, or Sabah, you now have more EV charging options than ever before.
⚡ 2. Types of EV Charging Stations
There are 3 main levels of EV chargers:
| Type | Charging Power | Charging Time (0-80%) | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| AC Type 2 (Slow/Medium) | 3.7–22 kW | 3–8 hours | Home, Malls |
| DC Fast Charger | 50 kW | ~1 hour | Public stations |
| DC Ultra Fast (High Power Charger) | 180–350 kW | 20–30 mins | Highway stops, premium sites |
🏠 3. Home EV Charging in Malaysia
Home charging is the most convenient and cost-effective way to keep your EV ready.
✅ Home EV Charging Setup:
- Type: AC Type 2 wallbox (7kW–22kW)
- Installation Cost: RM2,000–RM5,000 depending on setup
- Brands Available: EV Connection, ChargeSini, Tesla Wall Connector, Wallbox, etc.
Installation Tips:
- Always use a certified installer
- Make sure your home has sufficient electrical load (especially for 11kW+ chargers)
- Install near your parking bay with weather protection
🔌 4. EV Charging Cables Explained
Understanding your EV’s charging cable is essential, especially when traveling.
Common Cable Types in Malaysia:
| Type | Plug Standard | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Type 2 (Mennekes) | AC Charging | Most EVs in Malaysia |
| CCS2 (Combined Charging System) | DC Fast Charging | Used by Tesla, BMW, Hyundai |
| CHAdeMO | DC Charging | Used by older Nissan Leafs |
Most EVs in Malaysia now use Type 2 for AC and CCS2 for DC charging.
Should I carry a cable?
Yes! Some public chargers are BYOC (Bring Your Own Cable). It’s wise to keep a Type 2 to Type 2 cable in your trunk.
🗺️ 5. Public EV Charging Networks in Malaysia
Malaysia is home to several growing EV charging providers:
| Provider | App | Type | Notable Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| ChargEV | ChargEV | AC & DC | KL, Penang, Johor |
| JomCharge | JomCharge | DC Fast | Highways, malls |
| Gentari (Petronas) | Setel / GoEV | DC & HPC | Petronas stations |
| TNB Electron | GoTo-U | DC Fast | Highway rest stops |
| Tesla Supercharger | Tesla App | Ultra-fast DC | Pavilion KL, IOI City Mall |
Many of these stations now support cross-compatibility and app-based payment, with real-time availability shown in apps like PlugShare and ABRP.
💸 6. EV Charging Costs & Payment Methods
Public EV charging costs vary by provider and speed:
| Charger Type | Estimated Cost (per kWh) | Approx. RM per 0–80% |
|---|---|---|
| AC (Slow/Medium) | RM0.80–RM1.20 | RM15–RM25 |
| DC Fast (50kW) | RM1.20–RM1.50 | RM25–RM40 |
| DC Fast (50kW) | RM1.50–RM1.80 | RM30–RM50 |
Most apps support:
- Credit/Debit Cards
- E-wallets (Touch ‘n Go, GrabPay)
- Subscription or pay-per-use models
🎯 7. Government Incentives & Future Plans
Malaysia is committed to an EV-friendly future:
- Zero import duty on EVs until 2025
- Tax exemptions for EV owners
- Up to RM2,500 tax relief on EV charging equipment
- 10,000 public chargers by 2025 (as per MITI’s National EV Policy)
❓ 8. FAQs on EV Charging in Malaysia
Q: Can I charge my EV at a regular 3-pin socket?
A: Yes, but it’s very slow (2–3kW) and not ideal for daily use.
Q: Is it cheaper to charge at home or in public?
A: Home charging is almost always cheaper, especially during off-peak hours (TNB Time of Use plan).
Q: Do I need a different cable for DC charging?
A: No — DC fast chargers have their own attached cables. You only need to bring your own cable for AC Type 2 public points.
✅ Final Thoughts
Whether you’re already driving electric or thinking about switching, understanding EV charging in Malaysia is key to a smooth experience. From installing a home EV charger to finding the right charging cable and using public fast chargers, this guide helps you stay powered wherever the road takes you.
👉 Bookmark this guide, and check out our latest posts on EV ownership tips, EV-friendly accessories, and Car cleaning & detailing.
