THE Penang government may consider adopting electric vehicles (EVs) into the state’s vehicle fleet as part of its commitment to environmental responsibility and leading by example.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow emphasised the importance of embracing sustainability and encouraged the public and private sectors to contribute.
“We can consider the use of EVs, but our concern is the availability of charging stations, as the state vehicle fleet often travels long distances. This issue needs to be addressed seriously by the industry,” he said during the grand opening of Proton’s first e.MAS EV showroom in Jelutong today.
Marking a significant milestone in Proton’s transition towards sustainable mobility, the showroom’s strategic location offers easy accessibility to various parts of town.
Chow welcomed the showroom’s opening, which aligns with the state’s commitment to environmental responsibility, as outlined in the Penang Green Agenda 2030.
“I am impressed with the effort taken by Eleganz Lifestyle to instal solar panels on the building, making it eco-friendly. The decision to harness solar energy to power the facility underscores a deep commitment to reducing the building’s carbon footprint.
“This showroom has also been recognised as a Penang Green Hub by the Penang Green Council (PGC). This recognition is a testament to the showroom’s outstanding environmental performance,” he said, adding that the showroom is equipped with the most powerful 120kW DC charger on Penang island.
With the growing number of EV owners, Chow said the showroom will become a crucial hub for EV charging, supporting the adoption of EVs.
Eleganz Lifestyle Sdn Bhd Managing Director Fire Ooi Choon Lim praised the showroom’s opening as a bold step towards supporting the country’s transition to greener transportation.
“We are proud that our showroom is recognised by PGC,” he said.
Also present at the launch event were Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, and Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Zhang Qiang.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat