Kuala Lumpur: New Energy Asia Sdn Bhd, a joint venture between HICOM Engineering Sdn Bhd (HESB) and China’s Hangzhou Flash Charging New Energy Co Ltd (HFC), will be the sole distributor of Lotus electric vehicle (EV) chargers across ASEAN. HESB is a subsidiary of DRB-HICOM Bhd, while HFC is a part of Lotus Technology Inc, specializing in luxury EVs.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, DRB-HICOM group managing director and HESB chairman Tan Sri Syed Faisal Albar announced that New Energy Asia will start the nationwide rollout of Lotus charging stations in Malaysia. He expressed interest in collaborating with original equipment manufacturers and property developers to integrate advanced EV units in modern condominiums.

Syed Faisal emphasized the joint venture’s significance, expressing gratitude for governmental support. He reiterated DRB-HICOM’s commitment to the EV sector and reducing carbon emissions, citing ongoing projects such as the assembly of Mercedes-Benz EQS EVs and the conversion of Pos Malaysia’s fleet to electric vehicles.

HESB chief operating officer Hazrin Fazail Haroon mentioned plans to establish a manufacturing facility in Tanjung Malim, Perak, within two years, subject to market demand. In the meantime, New Energy Asia will focus on after-sales service and enhancing its workforce’s expertise in charge point operations.

Haroon highlighted the importance of training, noting that their team has already undergone initial training at Hangzhou Flash Charge in China. The upcoming phase will involve online training aimed at calibrating charging equipment and ensuring compatibility with new car models in collaboration with OEMs and partners.