Akmal Azhar
Introduction of Grab EV for Airport Travel
Putrajaya, Malaysia – In a bid to bolster sustainability and reduce carbon emissions, Grab Malaysia has unveiled its first-ever electric vehicle (EV) service, branded as “Grab EV,” specifically tailored for travelers commuting from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). The initiative, launched on June 24, 2025, marks a significant step in the company’s drive toward green mobility.
Deployment of BYD Electric Vans
The inaugural fleet comprises ten BYD M6 electric vans, available exclusively for airport rides. These EVs can be booked directly through the Grab mobile application. According to a spot check by The Edge Malaysia, fares from KLIA Terminal 1 to KL Sentral via a standard six-seater ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicle are priced at RM 105, whereas the EV counterpart costs RM 134. Although the EV option comes at a premium, Grab aims to demonstrate the practicality and comfort of electric travel for a discerning customer segment.
Strategic Partnerships with EV Stakeholders
This initiative is the result of a strategic partnership involving key stakeholders in the EV ecosystem. Grab collaborated with BYD Sime Motors, the official distributor of BYD automobiles in Malaysia, as well as Yinson Green Technologies—a wholly‑owned green technology subsidiary of Yinson Holdings—and Power‑Up Tech Pte Ltd, a Singapore-based EV charging services provider.
Grab’s Commitment to Sustainable Mobility
Rashid Shukor, Grab Malaysia’s Director of Country Operations and Mobility, emphasized the importance of visibility in building consumer confidence in EVs: “By prioritising routes with high visibility and demand such as KLIA, we aim to demonstrate the practicality and comfort of EVs, while driving greater awareness among consumers.” His comments underline Grab’s commitment to supporting national sustainability objectives.
Government Support for EV Adoption
Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook welcomed the entry of private-sector players into the eco-friendly transport space. He expressed optimism that such collaborations would help bolster public trust and accelerate EV adoption in Malaysia.
Towards a Greener Transportation Future
Through “Grab EV,” Grab Malaysia not only expands its service portfolio but also sets a precedent for integrating clean-energy solutions into everyday transport services. With passengers starting to embrace this green alternative, the country’s broader goals around electric mobility continue to gain momentum.
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