Budget 2024 promotes a more sustainable future, says Mercedes-Benz Cars Malaysia CEO

KUALA LUMPUR: Budget 2024 which promotes the adoption of electric mobility, aligns with Mercedes-Benz's global mission, Ambition 2039, a comprehensive strategy aimed at addressing climate protection and reducing air pollution.

In a statement, Amanda Zhang, president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Cars Malaysia and head of region, Mercedes-Benz Cars SEA II, said, "We firmly believe in the future of electric vehicles and have a well-defined roadmap to electrify our product range, while striving to meet our sustainability goals."

The German luxury automaker's sustainability goals are:

⦁ By 2025, 50% of its vehicles to be xEV, encompassing both Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
⦁ By 2030, prepared to transition from an “Electric First” approach to “Electric Only” wherever market conditions allow.
⦁ By 2039, to achieve net CO2 neutrality along the entire value chain.

"These ambitions are deeply embedded in our sustainable business strategy and in Malaysia, we are resolute in our commitment to integrating these principles across all aspects of our operations," said Zhang.

"In Malaysia, we have been unwavering in our commitment to this strategy, consistently introducing new electric Mercedes-Benz models over the past two years. As a result, we now offer one of the most extensive portfolios of electric vehicles, featuring seven model variants. A significant milestone was achieved with the local assembly of the EQS 500 4MATIC," she noted.

Zhang pointed out that the all-electric Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV (sport utility vehicle) is slated to be launched this coming Friday, and the company has plans to launch another all-electric model before year end.

"These efforts underscore our dedication to providing innovative electric vehicles and contributing to a more sustainable future for our customers in Malaysia," she said.

Zhang also pointed out that achieving a sustainable future is a collaborative endeavour that extends beyond the German luxury automaker and the automotive industry.

"It requires forging new partnerships among automakers, suppliers, the energy sector, policymakers and society at large," she said.

As such, Zhang lauded the inclusion of the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) in Budget 2024.

"This roadmap focuses on key drivers, such as new energy sources and green mobility and offers a clear path toward a more sustainable future. It emphasizes the importance of green and clean energy solutions in Malaysia. Through these comprehensive strategies and shared efforts, we can collectively shape a better and more environmentally responsible future for all," she said.