Tan Chong Motor Holdings (TCMH) has officially taken a significant step into Malaysia’s electric vehicle (EV) landscape by signing a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua (Perodua). The agreement will see Tan Chong Motor Assemblies, a 70%-owned subsidiary of TCMH, provide assembly services for Perodua’s upcoming first-ever EV.



Under the LOI, Perodua will leverage Tan Chong’s existing assembly lines to produce its debut electric model, marking a major milestone for both companies. The collaboration covers full assembly operations, as well as painting line services and electro-deposition coating to enhance corrosion protection for EV components. The LOI, signed on 13 November, will remain in effect until both parties execute a definitive agreement.



Perodua’s first electric vehicle — positioned as Malaysia’s first “locally developed” EV — is expected to be unveiled by the end of November 2025. Early details suggest the model will be priced around RM80,000 and offer up to 400 km of range (NEDC). The EV will support 60 kW DC fast charging and reach a top speed of 165 km/h. Safety remains a key focus for Perodua, with the brand targeting ADAS 2.0++ advanced safety features and a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.



This collaboration marks a strategic expansion for Tan Chong Motor, traditionally known as the franchise holder of Nissan, Renault, and TQ Wuling in Malaysia. By partnering with Perodua, TCMH strengthens its role in the nation’s growing EV manufacturing ecosystem, while Perodua gains immediate access to established assembly infrastructure to accelerate the rollout of its EV ambition.