The Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii) has launched the Voluntary Next Generation Vehicle (NxGV) Labelling Scheme at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025, signaling a pivotal advancement under the National Automotive Policy 2020 (NAP2020). This initiative aims to accelerate Malaysia’s transition toward greener, smarter mobility solutions.
Unveiled in tandem with the NxGV Challenge 2025 Prize Giving Ceremony, the launch highlights Malaysia’s dedication to sustainable innovation. Co-organised by MARii and SAE Malaysia, with support from PERODUA, the event celebrated outstanding contributions from young talents in electric vehicle (EV) design, reinforcing the nation’s vision under its ASEAN 2025 Chairmanship to champion low-carbon and connected transportation.
The NxGV label, introduced as a voluntary benchmark, is intended to set a new standard in the automotive sector. It recognizes vehicles that meet stringent criteria in energy efficiency, connectivity, and at least Level 3 automation. The label is designed to help automakers — particularly EV and autonomous vehicle producers — stand out in an increasingly competitive and technology-driven market.
“The NxGV label represents more than just compliance — it’s a mark of innovation, sustainability, and ASEAN leadership,” said Azrul Reza Aziz, Chief Executive Officer of MARii.
“With Malaysia leading ASEAN this year, we are aligning our mobility goals with regional aspirations, shaping a future where Next Generation Vehicles drive progress across nations.”
The initiative supports Malaysia’s environmental targets, including a 45% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 under the Paris Agreement, and the broader goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. It also reflects the country’s strategy to build a robust ecosystem around green technologies, digital transformation, and mobility innovation.
Deputy Secretary General of MITI, Datuk Hanafi Sakri, emphasized the need for forward-thinking standards:
“Today’s vehicle labelling must go beyond emissions. It must reflect intelligence, connectivity, and automation. Malaysia’s NxGV label embodies this shift and reinforces our position — and ASEAN’s — at the heart of sustainable and high-tech mobility.”
NxGV Challenge 2025: Nurturing Future EV Innovators
Launched in December 2024, the NxGV Challenge 2025 invited teams from universities and polytechnics to design, build, and race formula-style electric vehicles. Participants also submitted research papers through the SAE Malaysia platform, promoting strong R&D capabilities and hands-on innovation.
“This challenge merges academic excellence with real-world EV design,” said SAE Malaysia Chairperson Ts. Zulhaidi Jawi. “These students aren’t just competing — they’re shaping the mobility landscape of tomorrow.”
PERODUA President and CEO Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad added:
“Connecting academia with the industry is essential. Through initiatives like this, we are helping prepare the next generation to lead Malaysia into the EV era — which is our future.”