Chinese automakers and their European counterparts are driving the slow but sure transition to electric mobility in Malaysia and the region.
Mercedes-Benz distributor Cycle & Carriage said 2024 is turning out to be a "golden opportunity" to switch to electric vehicles (EVs). It outlined the following three benefits in backing up its statement.
Benefit #1: Tax incentive for EV ownership
These incentives include:
- Income tax exemptions of up to RM2,500 for those spending on EV charging facilities will be extended for four more years.
- Full import and excise duty exemptions, along with a sales and service tax (SST) waiver until the end of 2025
Another added benefit is the government’s continued investment and effort to expand the availability of charging stations throughout Malaysia.
This initiative ensures that EV owners have convenient access to charging facilities across the country, mitigating worries about range limitations.
Many of these charging stations offer membership programs, which EV owners can access discounted rates or even enjoy complimentary charging at select locations.
Benefit #2: Lower maintenance and cost efficient
One of the significant advantages of owning an EV in Malaysia lies in its lower maintenance requirements and cost efficiency.
Unlike traditional ICE vehicles, EVs have fewer moving parts, resulting in reduced wear and tear.
This translates to fewer visits to the service centre and lower maintenance costs over the lifetime of the vehicle.
With the advancements in EV technology, this has led to longer-lasting batteries mitigating concerns about battery replacement costs.
EV batteries can retain their efficiency for extended periods, with proper care and maintenance, ensuring continued cost savings for EV owners.
The operational costs of EVs are generally lower than those of conventional vehicles.
With the price of electricity typically being more stable and lower than petrol prices, even in Malaysia, EV owners can enjoy significant savings on fuel expenses.
With the mileage of the Mercedes-EQ series being up to 782km depending on the model you choose, this allows ample mileage to go on if you are within the city area before your next charge.
There is no denying that longer distance requires more planning but the mileage is more than sufficient for day-to-day use and reduces constant visits to the charging station which, in the long run, saves time and money.
Benefit #3: Better performance and smoother driving experience
When you choose an EV, you are not just making an environmentally conscious decision but also elevating your driving experience.
Electric vehicles provide instant torque, ensuring smooth and rapid acceleration that effortlessly navigates city streets and highways alike.
Unlike traditional cars, EVs operate quietly, creating a serene driving environment free from the noise from internal combustion engines.
With a lower center of gravity, EVs offer improved stability and handling, making maneuvers such as cornering feel more agile and controlled.
Regenerative braking systems in EVs not only extend driving range but also enhance braking efficiency, contributing to a smoother overall driving experience.
With the three benefits outlined, here's where Cycle & Carriage makes the pitch to offer affluent car buyers the chance to own an electric car from Mercedes-Benz.
If you are thinking of switching your current combustion-engined Mercedes-Benz to an EV, Cycle & Carriage’s trade-in service enables you to upgrade your ride with hassle-free car valuation, allowing you to retain competitive value from your current vehicle as a downpayment toward your preferred Mercedes-Benz EQ model.
You can now book a viewing appointment or simply walk in to any Cycle & Carriage branch across Malaysia to explore the Mercedes-Benz EQ series up close.
