Kuala Lumpur: Honda Malaysia has launched its first battery electric vehicle (BEV), the e:N1, priced at RM149,900. Its managing director and chief executive officer, Narushi Yazaki, noted that the launch bolsters Honda's electric vehicle (EV) lineup and provides Malaysians with more mobility options, aligning with the company's 2025 business strategy.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Yazaki emphasized plans to introduce two additional EV models over the next three years, with careful monitoring of customer demand and competitor pricing to navigate the rapidly evolving market. "Our goal is to respond carefully and strategically," he stated after the e:N1 launch.
The e:N1 features a 68.8kWh lithium-ion battery, delivering a maximum power of 150kW and peak torque of 310Nm. It supports AC (normal charging) up to 10kW and DC (fast charging) up to 78kW. Available colors include Platinum White Pearl, Aqua Topaz Metallic, and Urban Gray Pearl. Yazaki mentioned the company has received 200 bookings, with the first deliveries expected by mid-June, and eight authorized dealerships appointed to manage EV cars.
Meanwhile, Honda Malaysia president and chief operating officer Sarly Adle Sarkum expressed hope for extended government incentives, including tax exemptions for locally assembled EVs or completely knocked down (CKD) models, beyond 2027. He highlighted that such incentives are vital for supporting the national target of EVs comprising 15 percent of total vehicle sales by 2030.
He added that if the CKD program begins in 2027, manufacturers would require a minimum of five years post-implementation to recover their investments, stressing the importance of government support for the automotive industry's sustainability. The government has previously offered incentives such as sales tax exemptions for CKD vehicles, aiding consumer affordability.
Currently, fully imported or completely built-up (CBU) EVs are exempt from import and excise duties until December 31, 2025, while CKD EVs enjoy these exemptions until December 31, 2027.