KUALA LUMPUR: Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (Pro-Net) and EV Connection (EVC) have officially launched the "Pronet-EVC Condominium EV Charging Infrastructure Programme".
Under this initiative, EVC will provide funding to install electric vehicle (EV) chargers at 100 condominiums that currently lack such facilities. Both parties will also work together to offer competitive charging rates at approximately 70 condominiums already part of the JomCharge network.
The programme signifies the expansion of the existing partnership between Pro-Net and EVC.
EVC presently manages the supply, installation, operation and maintenance of home wall chargers for smart car owners, with over 400 installations completed so far.
EVC's JomCharge, one of the largest EV charging networks in Malaysia, is integrated into Pro-Net's network.
Together, they operate around 600 charging points and have facilitated over 2,000 charging sessions since the launch of smart vehicles.
The initiative aligns with the government's target of enhancing EV charging infrastructure and achieving 10,000 charging points nationwide by the end of next year.
It also addresses the needs of Klang Valley residents, where about 70 per cent of the population live in high-rise buildings, by ensuring affordable EV charging access, thereby accelerating EV adoption.
Pro-Net chief executive officer Zhang Qiang said it was proud to collaborate with dynamic partners like EVC to expand its integrated charging network, as it prepared to enter the EV market with Proton e.MAS 7.
The network is accessible via Proton e.MAS and Hello Smart apps.
"Since we opened for booking just under a month ago, the positive response from the public shows that Malaysians are ready to embrace sustainable mobility.
"By providing convenient charging facilities, even for customers living in condominiums, we are removing any barriers to EV ownership," he said in a statement.
EVC managing director Ir Lee Yuen How said the pact would help ensure the continued growth of Malaysia's EV charging infrastructure as EV adoption increases.
For condominiums currently without EV charging facilities, interested management bodies can apply for free installation through the EVC website.
Approved applicants will receive a comprehensive package that includes EV chargers, necessary infrastructure, compliance costs, a charger management system, and integration with the JomCharge network.
Participating condominiums will also benefit from a profit-sharing mechanism under the programme.
Charging rates are set at a competitive 70 sen per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for the newly added condominiums.
Starting in next month, Proton e.MAS 7 users will enjoy a 10 per cent discount on the prevailing rates, reducing the cost to 63 sen per kWh.
This is nearly as affordable as the TNB residential tariff for landed property owners. Users at existing condominiums with time-based charging rates will also benefit from the discount.