Electric vehicles (EVs) have seen a surge in Malaysia in recent years.

More brands are introducing EV models at affordable prices, and with Tesla Malaysia commencing operations at its Cyberjaya office, it marked a significant milestone in Malaysia's electric vehicle landscape.

In line with the government's commitment to safety, SIRIM QAS International has launched certification and testing services for EV fire blankets. This pro-safety initiative underscores Malaysia's dedication to fostering a secure EV ecosystem.

Additionally, Malaysia’s Low Carbon Mobility Blueprint 2021-2030 will see the best energy and greenhouse gas mitigation options in the transportation sector. International Trade and Industry Minister (MITI), Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, earlier last year, said under the blueprint, Malaysia aims to achieve at least 15 per cent of electrified vehicles, including hybrids, out of the total industry volume (TIV) by 2030, and 38 per cent of electrified vehicles by 2040 under the National Energy Policy (2022-2040).

For the record, 799,731 vehicles were sold in Malaysia in 2023.

While the spotlight is often on the vehicles, the charging ports and associated equipment also play a crucial role in the EV ecosystem. The importance of such facilities become evident as 10,000 EV charging points will be installed in Malaysia by 2025.

SIRIM QAS International, Malaysia’s leading testing, inspection and certification body, is set to play a vital role in the industry via its electric vehicle charging system (EVCS) testing and certification services.

The testing, and certification process is crucial for the advancement and widespread adoption of EVs.

According to Fauziah Fadzil, Senior General Manager at SIRIM QAS International’s Product Certification and Inspection Department, the service can be a game changer in the EV industry for many reasons.

“Firstly, it’s for safety. The testing and certification ensure that EV charging systems meet stringent safety standards, both locally and abroad. This instils confidence in consumers, knowing that the charging infrastructure they are using is safe and reliable,” said Fauziah.

“This helps prevent potential hazards, such as electrical malfunctions or overheating, thereby reducing the risk of accidents during the charging process.”

Fauziah added that interoperability and compatibility were key, as the certification ensures that the charging systems are compatible with different EV models, and conform to standardised charging protocols.

“This promotes interoperability, allowing EV owners to use various charging stations, regardless of the vehicle brand they own. It eliminates barriers and provides a seamless charging experience, enhancing the convenience for EV users.

“The testing and certification processes also verify the performance and efficiency of charging systems. This includes evaluating the charging speed, power output, energy transfer efficiency, and stability.

In this newly-developing market, it is important for parties to know the exact amount of energy being transferred, and that it is measured fairly and accurately. Since the charging stations are also used in commercial transactions, where they are based on measurements – either energy (kWh) or time – they are subject to additional certification called Pattern Approval (PA).

PA and the conformity assessment on which it is based, are components of a system of legal metrology controls designed to provide the government with the means of ensuring the accuracy of the measurements covered by law or regulations. The PA process, therefore, constitutes an important component to ensure the accuracy of the measurements in certain areas of public concern. This certification process is the responsibility of the National Metrology Institute of Malaysia (NMIM), under the aegis of SIRIM Bhd, and an agency under MITI.

The PA conforms to international standards and practices, to ensure that the charging stations perform as advertised.

“Certified charging systems provide consistent and reliable charging performance, reducing charging time and increasing overall EV usability.”

Fauziah added that a tested and certified product would enhance consumer confidence, creating trust among users, manufacturers, and EV proponents.

The seal of approval or a stamp of quality on charging stations indicate that they had undergone rigorous testing, and had met, or exceeded industry standards. This builds confidence in EV technology and encourages more people to switch to EVs.

“Consumers will only need to look for the SIRIM certification logo as a stamp of safety and quality,” she added.

Fauziah said SIRIM QAS International’s existing testing and certification process would naturally attract investments in charging infrastructure and other related technologies.

“Companies and investors are more likely to support Malaysia’s EV industry when they have confidence in the safety, reliability, and compatibility of charging systems. This, in turn, will drive the expansion of charging networks and accelerate the overall growth of the EV market.”

She added that international cooperation and harmonisation in charging, testing, and certifying these products can lead to global standards for EV charging systems.

“This simplifies the development, deployment, and interoperability of charging infrastructure, worldwide. It enables seamless cross-border travel for electric vehicles and encourages international collaboration in advancing EV technology.”

The inspection checklist for the certification process is thorough and rigorous.

“It is reassuring to know that the charging stations are tested for electrical safety, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and performance, among others. The charging stations must also comply with relevant regulations and standards, such as IEC 61851, IEC 62752, IEC 62840, IEC 62893 and IEC 62196.”

Fauziah stressed that the certification is important for EV owners, as it is for the manufacturers and distributors of the chargers.

“EV owners can feel more confident and secure in using their vehicles. Having safe, reliable, and regulatory-compliant charging stations is essential in building trust in the industry, and it is exciting to see that happening,” she said.

The testing and certification programme also underlines SIRIM QAS International’s evolving role in this modern world. In fact, Malaysia is already one of the leading electrical and electronics manufacturing hubs in Southeast Asia, and has an established ecosystem, backed by solid research and development, and standards facilities, that can cater to the EV value chain.

There are also several Malaysian companies exporting components to EV manufacturers. This new certification programme places SIRIM QAS International right in the middle of the ever-exciting and rapidly evolving EV industry.

“It is inspiring to see how SIRIM QAS International is taking a leadership position in promoting sustainability and safety in the EV industry, and how its efforts can have a positive impact, which is becoming increasingly important as more people switch to electric vehicles,” Fauziah added.