Perodua QV-E: A much better deal than it was at launch

Perodua's QV-E electric vehicle has undergone significant improvements since its market debut in Sepang a few months ago. The most notable change is the ownership proposition, which Perodua has effectively revamped. Initially, the RM80,000 price tag seemed attractive until buyers realized the extra cost of leasing the 52.5-kWh battery through a Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) arrangement.

Six months later, Perodua has streamlined the process: customers can now purchase the QV-E outright, battery included, for RM93,999, or RM69,999 with BaaS at RM215 a month. A limited-time RM6,500 rebate reduces these prices further to RM87,499 and RM63,499 respectively until September 30. This change is crucial because the QV-E's core remains unchanged.

Beneath its angular exterior lies a ground-up EV architecture developed with assistance from Magna Steyr, featuring a 204 PS front-mounted motor and a 285 Nm torque output, capable of reaching 0-100 km/h in 7.5 seconds. The 52.5-kWh LFP battery provides a WLTP range of 370 km, with up to 60 kW DC charging capability. In Malaysian traffic, the instant torque makes overtaking and joining highways effortless.

The steering offers substantial weight, while the chassis provides a mature feel that surprises given its humble badge. However, the suspension hardware is relatively basic, and the cabin lacks the spaciousness expected from a modern EV. Despite these compromises, the QV-E's appeal lies in its straightforwardness, prioritizing the electric powertrain, safety equipment, compact dimensions, and easy driving experience.

It also boasts a five-star Asean NCAP rating and features like child presence detection. Perodua's localisation efforts, with more locally manufactured parts and increased production to over 500 units a month, have passed savings to customers. The RM87,499 promotional price, even with BaaS, now makes more sense than the initial launch price.

While there's room for improvement regarding charging speed and interior polish, the QV-E is now a more convincing proposition, finally possessing the price it should have had from the beginning.