The Malaysian Automotive Institute (MAI) has revealed at its 2014/15 review that development of numerous electric mobility solutions are underway – as part of its on-going initiative to further augment the local automotive industry – with some expected to bear fruits by the end of 2017.
Further development of lithium-ion battery technology, along with an e-bus and EV project are said to be the highlights of MAI’s undertaking, as stated by CEO, Mohamad Madani Sahari. The on-going e-bus project is expected to produce its first prototype by the end of 2015 with production slated for sometime in 2016.
As for its EV programme, Madani states that it is not connected to Proton’s own on-going EV development project – itself scheduled to roll out a prototype by 2017. Instead, it is said to be undertaken by a local, private firm with a prototype slated to appear as early as the “first quarter of 2016,” added Madani.
While details of the vehicle are scarce, Madani mentions that the production vehicle “will cost lower than RM100k” as well as boast an “operational range of up to 300 km” on a full charge. In relation, Madani has also stated that talks are on-going with Tesla Motors on a potential collaboration that might see its battery supercharging technology become available, in some form or another, in the future.
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments on the blog post mainly focus on skepticism about Malaysia's EV plans, with concerns over high prices, protectionist policies, and the country's ability to produce affordable electric vehicles below RM100k, especially comparing to Tesla's tech and pricing. Many criticize MAI's credibility and government protectionism, blaming it for Malaysia’s slow progress in R&D, lost investments, and brain drain. There's a strong sense that local industries, including Proton, lack innovation, and that EV development is hindered by high taxes, corrupt practices, and poor policy decisions. Some comments praise Tesla's open-source approach and Nikola Tesla's inventions, highlighting the global leadership in EV tech. Overall, sentiments are critical, hoping for better local initiatives but doubting meaningful progress under current circumstances.