Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more popular in Malaysia, with models like the BYD Atto 3, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Tesla Model Y, and Proton e.Mas 7 offering good range and features at various price points. As more drivers switch to EVs, understanding the best way to charge efficiently is essential, especially if you don’t want to get weird looks at the charging station.
This is because many EV manufacturers recommend stopping at 80% instead of charging to 100%. This method saves time, protects battery health, and ensures a smoother driving experience. It also separates the informed Malaysian EV driver from the noobs, so do read on to know more.
Why Charging an EV to just 80% is Faster and Better
Charging an EV follows a specific process controlled by the Battery Management System (BMS). Most EVs charge quickly from 0% to 80% but slow down significantly from 80% to 100%. This happens because lithium-ion batteries require different power levels at different charge states. Up to 80%, the EV takes in a high, constant charge. After that, the charging rate drops to prevent overheating and battery wear.
This slower rate from 80% to 100% can take the same amount of time as charging from 10% to 80%. For example, a DC fast charger might take 30 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%, but another 30 to 60 minutes to reach 100%. Charging up to 80% regularly helps preserve battery lifespan and reduces waiting time at public charging stations.
Estimated Driving Range on an 80% Charge in Malaysia
Most EVs available in Malaysia provide a practical range on an 80% charge. Here are some examples:
- BYD Atto 3 Extended Range – 385 km (full range: 480 km)
- Tesla Model Y Long Range – 430 km (full range: 535 km)
- Hyundai Ioniq 5 AWD – 370 km (full range: 460 km)
- BMW iX3 – 380 km (full range: 470 km)
- Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+ – 440 km (full range: 550 km)
- Proton e.Mas 7 – 355 km (full range: 445 km)
For daily use, an 80% charge is usually enough for city and highway driving. Most Malaysians drive an average of 50-100 km per day, making an 80% charge sufficient for several days without needing a recharge.
Even with heavier travel, such as commuting from nearby states like Selangor or Negeri Sembilan to Kuala Lumpur, a single 80% charge can cover multiple trips before requiring a top-up. For those taking longer drives, such as from Penang or Johor Bahru to KL, a brief stop at a DC fast charger midway ensures seamless travel without needing to fully charge to 100%.
EV Charging Specifications and Pricing in Malaysia
Here's the general charging time for each type of EV charger in Malaysia. Prices can differ depending on where you charge though, so do keep that in mind.
Home Charging (AC 7kW - 22kW)
Takes 4-12 hours, depending on the EV model and charger. Rates for home are based on TNB's tariffs, which increases according to usage. Refer to the list below:
- First 200 kWh: RM0.218/kWh
- 201k – 300kWh: RM0.334/kWh
- 301k – 600kWh: RM0.516/kWh
- 601k – 900kWh: RM0.546/kWh
- 901kWh onwards: RM0.571/kWh
Public AC Chargers (11kW - 22kW)
Available at malls and workplaces, taking 3-8 hours. Rates depend on the public provider, so expect a lot more variance in prices. The list below shows the rates for some well-known providers:
- ChargeSini - RM1.10/kWh
- ChargEV (11kW) - RM0.80/kWh
- ChargEV (22kW) - RM1.00/kWh
- Gentari (7kW) - RM0.90/kWh
- Gentari (11kW/22kW) - RM1.05/kWh
- Shell Recharge (7/11/22kW) - RM1/kWh (T&C applies)
- Shell Recharge - RM0.8/kWh (T&C applies)
DC Charging (50kW - 350kW)
Charges 10% to 80% in 30-40 minutes. The fast charging for electric vehicles, expect higher rates but faster charging speeds. Some notable providers with their rates are as below:
- ChargeSini (60kW) - RM1.2/kWh to RM1.38/kWh
- ChargEV (60kW) - RM1.20/kWh
- ChargEV (80 to 320kW) - RM1.60/kWh
- Gentari (up to 30kW) - RM1.30/kWh
- Gentari (50 to 180kW) – RM1.50/kWh
- Shell Recharge (Up to 180kW) - RM1.3/kWh (Gold member) | RM0.8/kWh (Platinum member)
The Best Way to Charge an EV Daily in Malaysia
For daily use, charging to 80% is recommended. It ensures a quick charging session, maintains battery efficiency, and prevents excessive heat build-up. Charging overnight at home or using public AC chargers is convenient for regular use.
DC fast charging should be reserved for long trips when quick top-ups are necessary. Given Malaysia’s road network and typical driving distances, an 80% charge is more than enough for most daily commutes and even longer intercity trips with strategic fast charging stops.
Would you like to see more EV charging tips and comparisons? Are there any other EV charging tips that you’d like to share? Feel free to do so in the comments below and stay tuned to TechNave.com for the latest updates on EV technology, charging networks, and upcoming models in Malaysia.
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