Grab, BYD, YGT sign MOU to accelerate EV mobility

Grab Malaysia has inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with BYD Sime Motors, Yinson GreenTech (YGT), and Power-Up Tech to facilitate the widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) among ride-hailing drivers. The initiative aims to transform Malaysia’s transportation sector by making EVs more accessible through competitive leasing packages, preferential charging rates, and improved charging infrastructure.

According to Grab, this collaboration aligns with the company’s commitment to accelerating the transition to sustainable mobility. “Through this collaboration, we are not only supporting Malaysia’s sustainability agenda but also empowering our driver-partners with access to greener alternatives,” said Rashid Shukor, Director of Country Operations and Mobility at Grab Malaysia. “By working with key industry players, we aim to accelerate EV adoption and drive long-term benefits for our communities and the environment.”

Leasing solutions and fleet support

Yinson GreenTech will spearhead the leasing programme by offering Grab driver-partners comprehensive EV leasing packages, beginning with an initial rollout of 10 units of the BYD M6. These leasing options will include competitive rental rates, reduced charging costs, and vehicle maintenance services to lower the financial burden on ride-hailing drivers transitioning to EVs.

Additionally, YGT will introduce fleet management tools and provide insights on EV performance. The company is also exploring the installation of additional EV charging stations at strategic locations to enhance accessibility for ride-hailing drivers. “Our proven track record in electrifying the logistics sector has paved the way for us to now embark into the e-hailing market. We are committed to helping businesses achieve greater efficiency and cost optimisation through electrification,” said YGT Chief Executive Lim Chern Yuan.

Exclusive EV pricing and training

As the official distributor of BYD vehicles in Malaysia, BYD Sime Motors will play a crucial role in supporting this EV adoption initiative by offering competitive pricing for the BYD M6 and other future EV models. The company will also provide specialized training sessions to help ride-hailing drivers better understand and operate their EVs.

“We are excited to partner with Grab Malaysia in making EV adoption more accessible,” said Jeffrey Gan, Managing Director of Sime Motors Southeast Asia. “As the official distributor of BYD cars in Malaysia, we are committed to providing exclusive car pricing and specialized training sessions to equip driver-partners with the knowledge and tools to transition seamlessly to EVs.”

Boosting Malaysia’s Green Mobility Agenda

The collaboration between Grab Malaysia, BYD Sime Motors, and Yinson GreenTech marks a significant step forward in Malaysia’s journey toward transportation electrification. By introducing practical solutions such as affordable leasing, preferential charging rates, and better infrastructure, the partnership aims to break down barriers to EV adoption in the ride-hailing industry.

As demand for sustainable transport solutions grows, this initiative is expected to have a positive impact on both the environment and the economy. “Ultimately, our goal is to contribute to Malaysia’s transportation electrification journey, driving a positive impact on the environment and the economy,” Lim added.

This latest effort underscores Grab’s long-term vision of integrating sustainability into its ride-hailing ecosystem, while industry partners like BYD Sime Motors and Yinson GreenTech play key roles in making EV adoption a viable option for Malaysian ride-hailing drivers.