- Perodua and UTM launched a 5-year program to develop EV engineering talent in Malaysia.
- The initiative includes HIL lab setup, EV courses, and hands-on training with QV-E EV units.
On April 21, 2026, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia and Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn. Bhd. formalized a strategic partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement to establish the Perodua–UTM xEV Engineering Program. This collaboration is designed as a long-term initiative aimed at strengthening the connection between academic research and automotive industry requirements. It focuses on building a future-ready workforce capable of supporting Malaysia’s transition toward sustainable mobility while advancing innovation in electrified vehicle technologies.
Structured EV Talent Development Program
The program is structured as a five-year initiative targeting Electrical Engineering (Hons) students at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. Each year, a selected group of 10 to 15 students will enter a specialized 1.5-year training pathway beginning in their third year of study. This structured approach ensures that participants gain both theoretical knowledge and practical industry exposure, aligning academic learning with real-world automotive engineering demands. The program is specifically tailored to equip students with competencies required in battery electric vehicle development and system integration.
Advanced xEV Laboratory and Technical Infrastructure
A key component of the initiative is the creation of a dedicated xEV Engineering Laboratory jointly developed by Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn. Bhd. and the university. The facility will be equipped with advanced tools and technologies, including Hardware-in-the-Loop simulation systems that enable precise testing and validation of vehicle components in controlled environments. This infrastructure supports deeper research capabilities and enhances the technical proficiency of students working on EV systems, ensuring alignment with modern automotive engineering standards.
Integration of EV Curriculum and Hands-On Training
To further strengthen industry relevance, the program incorporates battery electric vehicle-focused elective courses into the academic curriculum. These courses are designed to provide specialized knowledge in EV architectures, control systems, and energy management. In addition, Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn. Bhd. will supply two units of its QV-E EV along with technical equipment, enabling hands-on training. This practical exposure ensures that students can directly engage with real EV systems, bridging the gap between theoretical education and industrial application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the objective of the Perodua–UTM xEV Engineering Program?
The program aims to develop skilled EV engineers by combining academic learning with real industry exposure through a structured training pathway. It focuses on building competencies in battery electric vehicle technologies, system validation, and automotive engineering practices. Over five years, selected students receive specialized education, laboratory experience, and hands-on training using real EV systems. This initiative supports Malaysia’s broader goal of strengthening green mobility and creating a future-ready workforce for the evolving automotive sector.
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