Auto Bavaria, the largest network of authorised dealerships for BMW Group Malaysia has announced its strategic partnership with sustainable mobility solutions provider Handal Green Mobility (DC Handal) to expand fast-charging facilities across the Klang Valley and Penang.
Auto Bavaria has been working closely with DC Handal to provide fast-charging facilities to 10 charging sites in key areas across the Klang Valley and Penang, with plans for more sites in the pipeline. Together, the two companies aim to create a robust charging ecosystem that supports the growing adoption of electric vehicles and increases charging accessibility for Malaysian EV owners.
Customers can choose to pay for charging services at Auto Bavaria and DC Handal’s charging facilities using both credit and debit cards. The cards’ electronic counterpart at its OCBC payments terminals, along with app-based platforms with JomCharge and ChargEV are also accepted.
Charging at Auto Bavaria and DC Handal’s new fast-charging station at Bamboo Hills DUKE costs RM1.50 per kWh. The chargers at the site can provide a DC charging rate of up to 200 kW. Currently, the companies have a total of 9 charging stations across Klang Valley and Penang, with varying charging rate capabilities.
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With a speciality in developing fast-charging solutions, DC Handal is among the key players in the development of electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) technology. Its main shareholder, Handal Indah Sdn Bhd, is the largest private public bus operator in Malaysia. This allows DC Handal to play a crucial role in electrifying buses and meeting the evolving needs of public and private EV mobility.
Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Yang Berhormat Tuan Liew Chin Tong said, “As Malaysia strives to position itself as a regional leader in sustainable mobility, the progressive vision showcased by Auto Bavaria and DC Handal sets a commendable precedent. The strategic expansion of fast-charging facilities for electric vehicles aligns seamlessly with our national agenda to fortify the electric vehicle ecosystem and chart the course toward a greener, more resilient Malaysia.”
The minister added, “However, building a local electric vehicle ecosystem does not stop here. It is also crucial that the government develops an industrial policy, which is a strategic effort to encourage the growth of an electric vehicle supply chain locally to give our manufacturing industry a boost. It is encouraging to witness collaborations such as these and I hope that we will be able to see more catalysts for a robust and interconnected network of sustainable mobility solutions across the nation in the near future.”
BMW Group Malaysia Head of Corporate Communications and Sustainability, Sashi Ambihaipahan said, “We are pleased to be establishing a partnership with DC Handal through our leading dealer partner Auto Bavaria to further develop the infrastructure for charging of electric vehicles in the country. As the leading provider of premium electric vehicles in the country to date, this collaboration exemplifies our dedication to revolutionising the EV landscape in Malaysia, as well as setting a new standard for accessibility and convenience for EV owners.”
He added, “We believe this initiative will not only benefit our valued customers but also contribute to the collective effort to shape, lead, and future-proof the Malaysian automotive landscape, in line with the goals set out in Budget 2024.”
DC Handal Director, Lim Chern Chuen said, “As the automotive landscape evolves towards electrification, this collaboration with Auto Bavaria reflects our commitment to provide our customers with not only the best EVSE technology, but a seamless and convenient charging experience through our network. It was opportune that we have OCBC as our payment partner. Their support helps us establish our footprint in record time. With this collaboration, we believe in contributing significantly to a sustainable future of mobility.”
Auto Bavaria Managing Director, Vi Thim Juan said, “Auto Bavaria is elated to embark on this transformative partnership with DC Handal, which we believe to be a pivotal step in our unwavering commitment to delivering an unparalleled Premium Ownership Experience to our valued customers. The expansion of fast-charging facilities for electric vehicles underscores our dedication to not only meet but exceed the evolving needs of the Malaysian automotive market. This initiative echoes our commitment to be at the forefront of innovation, ensuring that our customers enjoy the utmost convenience and peace of mind throughout their electric vehicle ownership journey.”
BMW Group Malaysia’s current charging network thus far consists of over 1,700 charging facilities. This is made possible thanks to the group’s partnerships with energy solutions providers such as ChargEV, Yinson Greentech, JomCharge, and Gentari, as well as its new partners including Shell Recharge and ParkEasy, ChargeN’Go, CharhgeSini, Go To-U, and FlexiParking.
Additionally, there are over 100 BMW i and MINI charging facilities available at most of the brands’ authorised dealerships, as well as partnering venues across the country. The carmaker also said that more will be coming as part of its strategic infrastructure expansion plan set for the year ahead.
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