Kuala Lumpur: Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua) has emphasised that high safety standards are its top priority in the development of its first electric vehicle (EV). Its President and Chief Executive Officer Datuk Seri Zainal Abidin Ahmad said Perodua is committed to ensuring that the EV, which is expected to be introduced by the end of this year, complies with strict safety standards to prevent any untoward incidents.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Zainal Abidin stated that the “safety first” concept is being applied comprehensively at every level of Perodua’s product development, covering vehicle safety, factory operations, and worker safety. He expressed hope that the upcoming car would meet the safety standards selected and defined by the company. This commitment was reiterated during a press briefing after the launch of the Voluntary Next Generation Vehicle (NxGV) Labelling Scheme.

The assurance from Perodua comes in light of a recent incident involving an international EV brand, which reportedly came to a sudden stop on a highway. Local media had reported that a family experienced a frightening moment when their EV suddenly braked while being driven in the fast lane of the Cheras-Kajang Highway on May 1.

Zainal Abidin also disclosed plans regarding the production and market entry of Perodua’s first EV. He mentioned that Perodua aims to finalise production by October, with plans to market the vehicle by the end of the year. In its initial phase, the vehicle is expected to have over 30 per cent local content and will be assembled at a new plant in Rawang, Selangor, with a price tag under RM80,000.