Perodua Ativa Hybrid Confirmed for Local CKD Production – Malaysia's First Mass-Market Hybrid SUV Arrives Soon

For those following Perodua's electrification journey, today's news is a major milestone. After a four-year "Hybrid Feasibility Study", Perodua President and CEO Datuk Seri Zainal Abidin Ahmad has officially confirmed that the Perodua Ativa Hybrid will enter local production (CKD) and go on public sale in Malaysia.

The fuel-efficient model that was once only available for subscription trials is finally heading to Malaysian driveways.

From Pilot Subscription to Full Production

In 2022, Perodua imported 300 CBU units of the Ativa Hybrid for a limited subscription-only pilot programme to gather local driving data. Following a visit by Japan's Ambassador to Malaysia, Noriyuki Shikata, to the Sungai Choh facility, Datuk Seri Zainal confirmed that the company is now finalising production timelines and pricing. He assured the public: "Rest assured, this Ativa Hybrid will be produced locally."

Backed by a 1.5 Billion Yen Grant

A key catalyst behind this move is Perodua's successful application for approximately 1.5 billion yen (around RM 37 million) from Japan's Global South Fund, led by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). This funding is expected to help offset development costs, potentially resulting in a more competitive price for Malaysian buyers.

Powertrain: An EV That Doesn't Need Charging

The Ativa Hybrid uses Daihatsu's e-Smart Hybrid system:

• Engine: 1.2L WA-VEX 3-cylinder naturally aspirated engine acting purely as a generator
• Motor: 106 PS / 170 Nm electric motor that directly drives the wheels

This series-hybrid setup is similar to Nissan's e-Power — the engine never drives the wheels directly, but only generates electricity for the battery. The result is a quiet, responsive EV-like driving experience without range anxiety, as the car still runs on petrol.

Impressive Fuel Economy

Efficiency remains Perodua's strong suit. Under the Malaysian Driving Cycle, the Ativa Hybrid achieved 31.3 km/L. In real-world conditions, owners can realistically expect around 25 km/L — nearly double the efficiency of the current 1.0T Ativa (which averages 14–16 km/L). With ongoing discussions about fuel subsidies, this model could be a wallet-saver.

Estimated Pricing: Starting from RM75k?

The current ICE Ativa is priced between RM62,500 and RM73,400. Referencing the Rocky Hybrid in Indonesia (launched at around RM76,000 equivalent), the locally produced Ativa Hybrid is expected to be priced between RM75,000 and RM80,000.

Conclusion: Is It Worth the Wait?

Although Perodua had previously hinted that its first hybrid would debut on a full model change, the Ativa has now earned the honour of becoming the brand's first mass-produced hybrid model.

If you're looking for a practical, city-friendly SUV with excellent fuel efficiency and no range anxiety, the Perodua Ativa Hybrid is definitely worth waiting for.

Readers, if the Ativa Hybrid is priced around RM78,000, would you be tempted to buy one?