Perodua introduces UCar-e; a car rental scheme specifically tailored to students in local universities

Perodua Traz for illustration purposes only

Perodua has partnered with three local universities to launch UCar-e, an app-based car-rental service tailored specifically for university students and staff. The initiative introduces the service at Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), and the Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM).

The program represents Perodua’s latest expansion into automotive service models under its "Mobility as a Lifestyle" framework, which shifts the focus from traditional vehicle ownership toward service-oriented mobility solutions.

Campus Operations and Infrastructure

Perodua is initially deploying a fleet of 50 vehicles across the participating campuses. The UCar-e application allows users to locate, book, and access vehicles parked at designated campus locations for travel between student accommodations and lecture halls. Users are required to return the vehicles to specified parking zones on campus after use.

The service is scheduled to commence phased operations in June 2026, with the rollout timeline depending on the readiness and schedules of each individual university.

Student Employment and Entrepreneurship

To manage the fleet, Perodua is collaborating with the universities to hire students as vehicle management agents. These student agents will be responsible for maintaining vehicle cleanliness, monitoring fuel levels, and ensuring general upkeep in exchange for commission-based payments. According to Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad, this arrangement is intended to provide practical entrepreneurship training and real-world business exposure to the students.

Market Context and Strategy

The initiative was officially launched at Inasis Perodua, UUM, during a ceremony attended by Dato’ Sri Zainal and UUM Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Ahmad Martadha Mohamed.

The introduction of UCar-e aligns with broader automotive industry shifts and changing consumer habits. Perodua noted that a significant segment of Generation Z consumers increasingly prioritizes the driving experience over vehicle ownership due to the associated costs of maintenance, limited parking infrastructure, and urban traffic congestion.