EV buyers must be taught about safe home charging, says trade group

The Federation of Malaysia Electric Vehicle Associations is urging buyers of electric vehicles to receive proper guidance on home charging. Jason Lee, the president of the organization, emphasized the importance of hiring competent and licensed installers recognized by the Energy Commission. He pointed out that many buyers received insufficient information about home charging, which sometimes led them to hire their own installers, increasing the risk of improper installation or using unsuitable chargers.

Lee compared the installation of EV chargers to that of water heaters or air conditioners, stating that they should be installed by qualified technicians following all necessary procedures. He also recommended that EV owners keep a fire extinguisher near the charger as an added safety measure. Overnight charging is safe if the charger and electrical system are in good condition, as the charger will automatically stop once the vehicle is fully charged, according to Lee.

He suggested that car companies should train their product experts or sales staff to provide adequate training to new EV owners. Lee said that many car brands do not do this currently. EV owners, he stressed, should also ask questions and seek further information to ensure they understand the proper setup and safety measures for home charging.