N※N

Malaysia Implements Stricter Rules for ICE to EV Conversions

78

  //automotive-transportation.news-articles.net/co .. ts-stricter-rules-for-ice-to-ev-conversions.html
  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Thursday, January 1st 2026 at 23:33 GMT by Paul Tan

• 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
• 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source

2025-12-28 224 x 224 / 10261 Bytes

2026-01-01 179 x 224 / 12111 Bytes

2025-12-09 248 x 204 / 11894 Bytes

2025-12-09 231 x 218 / 9290 Bytes

Malaysia Tightens Rules on ICE to EV Conversions: New Guidelines Aim for Safety & Standardization

Malaysia has introduced a new set of guidelines governing the conversion of Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles into Electric Vehicles (EVs), significantly impacting the burgeoning aftermarket industry focused on these transformations. The move, announced by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and detailed in a recent circular, aims to ensure safety, standardization, and accountability within this increasingly popular but previously largely unregulated sector. The guidelines come into effect immediately and represent a substantial shift from the previous, more permissive approach.

Why the Change? Addressing Concerns & Establishing Frameworks

The rise of ICE-to-EV conversions in Malaysia has been fueled by several factors: government incentives for EVs (though these are now being reevaluated – see related article [https://paultan.org/2024/11/27/ev-incentives-review-may-see-changes-in-2025/]), the high cost of new EVs, and a desire among enthusiasts to create personalized electric vehicles. However, this rapid growth has also raised serious concerns about safety, quality control, and environmental impact. Previously, conversions were largely done by independent workshops with varying levels of expertise and adherence to standards. The JPJ’s intervention is designed to address these issues head-on.

The primary driver behind the new guidelines is public safety. Unregulated conversions can result in vehicles with compromised structural integrity, inadequate battery management systems (potentially leading to fires), and incorrect vehicle identification information. Furthermore, the lack of standardized procedures made it difficult for authorities to ensure that converted EVs met minimum performance and safety requirements. The JPJ also acknowledges concerns regarding the potential environmental impact of improper disposal of ICE components during conversions.

Key Components of the New Guidelines: A Detailed Breakdown

The new circular outlines a multi-faceted approach, focusing on certification, registration, and ongoing responsibilities. Here's a breakdown of the key elements:

• Approved Conversion Workshops: Crucially, only workshops that have been approved by JPJ will be permitted to carry out ICE-to-EV conversions. This approval process involves rigorous assessments of technical capabilities, quality control procedures, safety protocols, and environmental management practices. The circular details specific requirements for these workshops, including qualified personnel, appropriate equipment, and adherence to established conversion standards (which are still being finalized).
• Type Approval & Individual Vehicle Inspection: Each type of converted vehicle (e.g., a specific model undergoing an EV conversion) must undergo Type Approval by JPJ. This involves demonstrating that the converted vehicle meets all relevant safety and performance standards. Following Type Approval, each individual converted vehicle will also be subject to inspection before registration.
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Modification Restrictions: Previously, workshops could freely modify the VIN during conversions. The new guidelines place strict limitations on this practice. The chassis number must remain unchanged; however, a supplementary identifier is now permitted to indicate that the vehicle has undergone conversion. This helps maintain traceability and accountability.
• Battery Management System (BMS) Requirements: Given the heightened risk of battery-related incidents, the new guidelines place significant emphasis on the BMS. The BMS must be certified and capable of managing the EV's battery pack safely and efficiently, including thermal management and overcharge/discharge protection.
• Documentation & Record Keeping: Conversion workshops are now obligated to maintain detailed records of all conversions performed, including component specifications, testing results, and warranty information. This documentation must be readily available for JPJ inspection.
• Insurance Implications: The guidelines also implicitly address the insurance aspect. While not explicitly stated in the circular (as of this writing), it's highly likely that insurers will require evidence of compliance with these new regulations before providing coverage for converted EVs. This is a logical consequence, as insuring vehicles modified outside established safety protocols presents significant risk to insurance companies.

Impact on the Industry & Future Considerations

The introduction of these guidelines represents a major hurdle for many smaller workshops currently involved in ICE-to-EV conversions. The costs associated with obtaining JPJ approval and adhering to the new standards are substantial, potentially forcing some out of business. However, industry experts argue that this is a necessary step towards creating a sustainable and safe aftermarket EV conversion ecosystem.

The move also signals a shift in Malaysia’s approach to EVs. While incentives for new EVs may be under review (as highlighted by Paultan's article), the government clearly recognizes the potential of converted EVs as a more accessible alternative. However, these conversions must now meet stringent safety and quality standards.

Looking ahead, JPJ is expected to release further details regarding the specific conversion standards and the approval process for workshops. The development of a comprehensive framework for battery disposal and recycling will also be crucial in minimizing the environmental impact of ICE-to-EV conversions. The success of these new guidelines hinges on effective enforcement and ongoing collaboration between JPJ, industry stakeholders, and consumer groups.

This article provides a summary based on the provided URL and incorporates linked content to give context. It aims to present the key changes and their implications for both consumers and businesses in Malaysia's evolving EV landscape.