By Muhammad Kamal Sabran
In the Twelfth Malaysia Plan 2021, Malaysia pledged its commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
The nation has been making notable progress towards environmental conservation and sustainability through the adoption of green mobility practices, aiming to reduce air pollution, carbon emissions, and increase energy efficiency.
This reinforces Malaysia’s stance to become the powerhouse for EV in Southeast Asia, especially as electric vehicles gain more traction and popularity within the Malaysian community.
Malaysia’s automotive industry remains a vital and crucial component, contributing 4% to the nation’s GDP and holding the position as the third largest automotive market in ASEAN.
However, the move towards a greener and more sustainable mode of transportation raises concerns about the performance, dependability, and safety of these advanced cars.
The increase in Electric Vehicle Charging Systems (EVCS) has raised concerns about their safety and legitimacy. This is why procedures must be in place to guarantee drivers in Malaysia the highest level of safety and efficiency from EVCS.
According to the Low Carbon Mobility Blueprint (2021 – 2030), Malaysia has set a target to provide 10,000 public charging stations by 2025 – underscoring the need for robust procedures ensuring the highest level of safety and efficiency for EV drivers.
Developing Confidence Through Certification
As electric mobility gains momentum, ensuring the availability of reliable EVCS becomes crucial. Establishing trust is not merely an objective for EV manufacturers; it is a necessity.
This is where thorough testing and certification procedures are pivotal in developing a dependable electric vehicle ecosystem.
The certification process involves comprehensive testing protocols, meticulously examining every aspect to ensure adherence to strict safety requirements and performance standards.
From electrical component efficiency to the structural integrity of physical infrastructure, the certification procedure addresses factors such as electrical safety, fire safety, and the prevention of potential hazards.
The certification procedure identifies and addresses flaws, guaranteeing that the charging stations are safe to use in various situations and environments.
Who Should Get Certified?
Certification extends beyond manufacturers to encompass various industry stakeholders: charging manufacturers, installers, building contractors, automotive service providers, and EVCS maintenance professionals.
This collective effort ensures a commitment to providing a safe and reliable charging experience for electric vehicle owners, fostering a culture of excellence and instilling confidence in manufacturers, regulators, and customers alike.
SIRIM QAS International: Pioneering Safety Certification
SIRIM QAS International Sdn Bhd’s (SIRIM QAS) certification programme is integral in creating and developing the EV industry, ensuring the security and operation of charging stations. Reliable and safe EVCS promote trust while encouraging broader acceptance of electric mobility.
Especially now that Malaysia is making efforts to support the growth of the electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem.
The readiness of Malaysia’s EVCS to meet the demands of a rapidly progressing EV market depends on several factors and considerations that need to be addressed which include the expansion of charging infrastructures strategically in urban areas, along highways, and in public space to ensure widespread and convenient access.
SIRIM QAS provides testing and certification services that provide benefits to consumers and industry players, manufacturers, operators as well as licensees.
The importance of certification is to ensure that EVCS meets the safety and quality standards to assure consumers that the products they are using are safe and reliable.
Certification promotes seamless integration by ensuring that charging stations are compatible with a range of EV models and charging standards, making it simpler for consumers to use different charging stations with their electric vehicles.
In addition to this, certification promotes product improvements and elevates the quality and performance of an EV charging equipment.
By carrying out these certification procedures, EVCS manufacturers and operators can reduce their liability in cases of accidents or equipment failures and having certified equipment can serve as proof that the manufacturers have taken the necessary measures to uphold safety standards.
Becoming a regional leader in electric mobility demands a commitment to safety, reliability, and performance.
The collaborative effort between government bodies and industry players like SIRIM QAS International exemplifies a dedication to a more sustainable and electric future in Malaysia.
By prioritising safety, reliability and functionality, Malaysia is leading the way towards an environmentally sustainable nation, encouraging electric mobility with confidence and integrity.
The article is written by SIRIM QAS product certification head Muhammad Kamal Sabran.
