The platform aims to drive awareness of the growing range of sustainable automotive choices in the nation
[KUALA LUMPUR, 2 June 2023] – The RHB DRIVE: Premium & EV Roadshow 2023, powered by Carlist.my and WapCar (part of the CARSOME Group), roared to an electrifying start earlier today at the Piazza, Pavilion Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur.
Officiated by YB Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub, Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, the three-day event set to be held from 2 to 4 June 2023 showcases the latest array of electric vehicles across various price ranges. Through this platform, the organizers aim to create more awareness around EV options for the eco-conscious and enthusiasts alike.
During the launch ceremony, Datuk Seri Salahuddin said he was pleased to witness the growing adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs) in Malaysia. He added that the EV revolution is gaining momentum, and it is crucial to continue creating an enabling environment that encourages their use and adoption.
“It has been very encouraging to see new EV brands entering Malaysia with their cutting-edge EV offerings – many of which are on display today. Further, traditional brands are also electrifying their offerings, offering modern sustainable twists to familiar models Malaysians have grown to love over the years,” he said.
“As competition in the EV space heats up, we have been seeing more affordable models entering the market, offering premium specs and sustainable technology at lower and lower price points. It is my hope that this trend continues, and we will soon see widespread adoption of EV cars amongst the masses and across all income brackets,” he added.
Datuk Seri Salahuddin also said that all of these EV investments spur the domestic economy, helping to grow the local automotive trade, as well as creating high-quality job opportunities for countless Malaysians.
“Another component of making EVs more affordable is the financing aspect. On this note, I would like to applaud Banking and Financial institutions which have come up with EV-specific financing programs, such as RHB’s Green Financing, that offers the lowest pricing when consumers choose to buy an EV. It is my hope that more Banking partners will follow suit and join the effort to make EVs more affordable together,” added Datuk Seri Salahuddin.
In his welcoming address, CARSOME’s Co-founder and Group Chief Executive Officer Eric Cheng highlighted CARSOME’s aspirations to enable sustainable mobility and empower customers with information and choices leveraging the Group’s comprehensive automotive ecosystem.”
“Both premium and electric vehicles infuse technological innovation and sustainability to form a compelling solution for climate concerns. From emission reductions to energy efficiencies made possible through aerodynamic designs, lightweight materials, regenerative braking systems, and advanced power management systems, these vehicles offer a host of cutting-edge features that enhance safety, convenience, and sustainable solutions. Our RHB DRIVE: Premium & EV Roadshow 2023 provides a glimpse into the technological marvels that define the driving experience of the future.”
Digbijoy Shukla, CEO of iCar Asia added, “According to recent reports, there is growing interest and demand for electric and premium vehicles in the Malaysian automotive market driven by rising income, government incentives, and growing environmental awareness. We are thrilled to collaborate with RHB to unveil the RHB Premium & EV Roadshow 2023, where consumers can familiarize themselves with the latest in EVs, experience test drives, enjoy special offers and more.”
Also present at the event were Dato’ Mohamad Razif bin Haji Abd Mubin, Deputy Secretary General (Energy, Environment And Climate Change), Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change, Dato’ Adissadikin Bin Ali, the Managing Director of RHB Islamic Bank, Digbijoy Joseph Shukla, Head Of M&A And Ecosystem Strategy cum CEO of iCar Asia at CARSOME and KY Gan, Managing Director – Malaysia, iCar Asia at CARSOME.
The Guests of Honor were chauffeured into the showcase with elegance and style, arriving in electric vehicles that included the Volvo C40, BMW iX40, BYD Atto 3, and the Ora Good Cat, providing a firsthand experience of the impressive capabilities and features offered by these models.
The event is free for the public and is open from 10 am to 10 pm. For more information, visit Carlist.my and follow Carlist.my Facebook page for the latest updates.