Let’s talk about something we selalu kena fikir nowadays: how much does it really cost to charge an EV in Malaysia? If you’re planning to jump from petrol to electric, sure lah you want to know what’s the real deal. If you’re thinking whether to switch, can or not, this is for you.

Comparing Petrol And EV Charging

First, petrol price. Now, for Malaysians, RON95 is capped at RM1.99 per litre. So if you’re driving a normal sedan, maybe, like a Proton Saga, full tank about 40 litres, you’re looking at roughly RM80 for a full tank. That’ll give you around 500 kilometres if you drive like a normal person.

For an EV, the calculation is a bit different.

EV Charging Cost Table
Item Details
Popular EV Models BYD Atto 3, Ora Good Cat
Battery Capacity 50 – 64 kWh
TNB Home Charging Rate (First 200 kWh) RM 0.58 per kWh
TNB Home Charging Rate (After 200 kWh) RM 0.33 per kWh
Cost for Full Charge (60 kWh) ~RM 35
Range per Full Charge 400 – 500 km

Public charging are already catching up all over the country. You’ll see some charging stations in malls or highway R&R. The rates here start from about RM1.20 up to RM1.80 per kWh for DC fast chargers. You want your EV to charge quick, mesti bayar lebih lah. If you use these chargers for a full 60kWh top-up, it will cost about RM72 to RM108 each time. Can be about the same as petrol if you always use fast charging.

So, if you can charge at home, you save a lot. If you depend on public fast charging? The cost is almost like petrol. That’s the main point.

What Decides The EV Charging Cost?

There are a few things that will affect how much you pay for charging:

  • Where you charge: Home, shopping mall, or highway.
  • Type of charger: AC is slower and cheaper, DC is faster but costs more.
  • Your battery size: Bigger battery = more RM to charge.
  • Charging habits: Always top-up or always wait until kosong?

If you’re the type always rushing, only using DC fast chargers, then, memang mahal sikit lah. But if you can plug in every night at home, you’re looking at major savings.

Is It Cheaper In The Long Run?

If you often use your car daily and can charge at home, you’ll save money in the long term. RM35 per week for charging versus RM80 for petrol is a nice gap. That’s more cashback for kopi atau teh tarik, right?

But you have to think of the upfront EV price. Most EVs are still pricier than petrol cars. Over time, those charging savings will add up, but you have to plan for the long haul.

FAQ: Malaysia EV Charging

1. How much does it cost to charge an EV at home?

On average, you’ll pay RM30 to RM40 for a full charge at home for most EVs with 60kWh batteries. If your electricity bill is already high, the rate will be a little lower for extra units used.

2. Is public charging much more expensive?

Yes, public fast chargers are more expensive. Expect to pay between RM1.20 and RM1.80 per kWh. A full charge can be as high as RM108 if you use fast DC chargers every time.

3. Can I only charge at home?

As long as your home has the proper electrical setup, you can charge your EV at home with a dedicated wallbox or even a regular 3-pin plug. But charging is slower if you use the normal plug.

4. Is EV charging still cheaper than petrol with the new RM1.99 price?

If you charge at home, yes, it’s cheaper than petrol. RM35 for 400 kilometres versus RM80 for petrol for around 500 kilometres. But if you’re always using fast chargers on the road, then sometimes the cost is almost the same as filling up with RON95.

5. Does charging speed matter for cost?

Yes. Fast chargers (DC) work quickly, but you pay more. If you’re not in a rush and can leave your car charging overnight with an AC charger, you’ll pay much less.

6. Will EV charging get even cheaper?

Maybe, but right now, electricity tariffs are still controlled. If more Malaysians start using EVs and TNB keeps prices stable, charging could stay affordable. But always check for any new government updates.

The Bottom Line

If you want to save on running costs and can charge at home, EVs make sense. Petrol is a bit more predictable, especially with the RM1.99 cap. But with electricity, you get flexibility. In the end, it’s about your lifestyle. Always on the go, always on highways? Maybe petrol is easier for now. Can plug in at night, relax, then go to work in the morning? EV sure can save.

That’s the story lah. Think about what’s most practical for your daily life and whether you can handle the “plug-in” habit. In Malaysia, got options for both, up to you, can or not?