KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 15 — The new Perodua Axia, the latest energy efficient vehicle (EEV) model launched by Perodua will set a new benchmark in terms of quality, cost management and productivity in the EEV market.              

Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said Perodua Axia, the Malaysia’s first EEV car has proved that Perodua is able to adapt and flourish in the country.             

“It is our hope that the brand will emerge as a regional player and later, a globally recognised brand,” he said after launching the Perodua Axia at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre here, tonight.              

Also present were Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry, Datuk Hamim Samuri, Second Deputy Education Minister, P. Kamalanathan and Perodua president and chief executive officer, Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh.              

Muhyiddin who is also chairman of the special committee to tackle the cost of living lauded Perodua for introducing an excellent model that offers value for money.

With this new model, Muhyiddin said Perodua has amply rewarded Malaysians with what they truly deserve, by developing a car that the market wants.              

“This is the car that offers a simple and contemporary design which combines functionality, practicality and is eco-friendly, yet it is available at a very affordable price.             

“Based on the price list and the features of the car, I believe that the Perodua Axia will be well accepted by Malaysians. I further hope that this model will be marketed to the Asian region in the near future.”              

Muhyiddin also said Malaysia’s EEV focus is not merely on fuel efficient vehicles, but also encompassed the whole automotive green life cycle.              

He added it was imperative to take into account the entirety of the automotive value chain in transforming the industry towards a sustainable one.                              

“The emission of greenhouse gases need to be controlled throughout the process in producing vehicles, while both vehicle and component manufacturers have to improve their processes to reduce the impact on the environment.             

“And this should include optimisation of energy usage and resources management,” he said.            

With continuous ‎investments by companies like Perodua, Muhyiddin said the government’s plan under the National Automotive Policy 2014 in making Malaysia an EEV production hub would be realised. — Bernama