Malaysia has taken a significant step forward in advancing electric mobility with the launch of the Electric Vehicle Test Center (EVTC) in Bandar Baharu, Kedah. Officially opened today, the facility is the first international test centre in the region equipped with specialised capabilities dedicated exclusively to electric vehicles, supporting the fast-growing electromobility ecosystem across South and Southeast Asia.

Owned and operated by Focus Applied Technologies Sdn. Bhd., the EVTC is designed to meet international testing standards while addressing the unique operating conditions of emerging EV markets. The centre features a purpose-built main test building alongside a 650-metre closed-loop test track, allowing controlled and comprehensive vehicle testing without reliance on public roads.

Inside the main facility are multiple advanced testing systems, including separate chassis dynamometers for trucks and buses, passenger cars, and two- and three-wheelers. The centre also houses four individual test cells dedicated to engine and motor testing, battery pack life-cycle evaluation, and hybrid system analysis. These automated test cells can operate for up to 20 hours a day, supporting rigorous 1,000-hour testing protocols to assess the durability and reliability of motors, batteries, and key vehicle components.

According to Horizon Gitano-Briggs, Chief Technology Officer of Focus Applied Technologies, the expansion was driven by the need to keep pace with international testing requirements. “A large part of our work involves developing and validating vehicles such as tuk tuks and autorickshaws for overseas markets. Having a dedicated test track allows us to conduct accurate testing without operating on public roads, while meeting global standards,” he said.

The first phase of the EVTC represents an investment of RM3 million, with further expansion planned through 2027 at an estimated cost of RM4 million. Once fully developed, the centre will support a wide range of testing services, including vehicle performance and range measurements, battery life-cycle testing, emissions evaluation, safety compliance, and on-road operational studies for two- and three-wheelers.

Beyond infrastructure, the EVTC plays a growing role as a regional research hub. It already supports EV-related projects involving hundreds of researchers worldwide, building on Focus Applied Technologies’ existing R&D services for markets in Africa and Asia. With the new centre, the company aims to expand its research community and attract more researchers and project implementers to northern Malaysia, particularly Kedah.

The EVTC is also part of a wider global ecosystem through its membership in the International Vehicle Test Center Association (INVICTA), a network that connects test centres worldwide to optimise the use of specialised vehicle testing equipment and enable collaborative research across borders.

Strong international partnerships further enhance the centre’s impact. Through links with organisations such as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), UNDP, UNIDO, and the World Bank—key sponsors of EV initiatives in developing nations—the EVTC is well positioned to support global electrification efforts. These connections are expected to generate new demand for Malaysian talent across multiple disciplines, including engineering, international project management, vehicle policy and standards, information technology, economics, and finance.

Human capital development remains a core focus for Focus Applied Technologies. Over the years, the company has supported internships, technical coaching, and training workshops in collaboration with institutions such as GIAT MARA, TVET-based learning centres, and universities nationwide.

Looking ahead, Focus plans to establish a dedicated training centre featuring a unique “drive-in” classroom concept, with stadium-style seating surrounding a centrally located chassis dynamometer. To accommodate the increasing number of visiting researchers and interns, additional facilities—including a hostel or hotel, café, and other commercial amenities—are also in the pipeline.

Industry players have welcomed the launch. Dato’ Dennis Chuah, Founder of Eclimo Sdn. Bhd., noted that the EVTC provides a credible local platform to validate EV technologies under real-world Malaysian conditions. He added that the centre helps local manufacturers and startups shorten development cycles while enabling multinational companies to localise products, meet regional requirements, and build resilient local supply chains.

With its advanced capabilities and global partnerships, the EVTC positions Malaysia as a strategic hub for EV testing, research, and talent development—supporting the region’s transition toward cleaner and more sustainable mobility.