EV Battery Lifespan and Recycling in Malaysia – How Are We Tackling This?

Driven by increased adoption and affordable options from brands like Tesla, BYD, and Proton, Malaysia is embracing the EV revolution in recent times. The government also aims to establish 10,000 charging stations by 2025. However, battery disposal is becoming a growing concern.

According to Malay Mail, EV batteries typically last between 8 to 10 years, raising questions about their end-of-life management. By 2050, Malaysia will need to process approximately 870,000 depleted batteries. However, global data suggests EV batteries can last between 15 to 20 years, though warranties often cover only part of their lifespan.

At Carz.com.my, we acknowledge concerns over battery disposal but don’t quite agree with the claims on battery lifespan. Unlike mobile phone batteries, modern EV batteries are designed to last well beyond their warranties which is typically 8 to 10 years.

MYEVOC’s Datuk Sharol, for instance, shared that his 2016 Tesla, with over 114,000 km, still retains 82% battery health. Additionally, older Renault Zoes from 2015 have shown even better longevity. Industry reports support that well-maintained EV batteries can last 15 to 20 years.

Battery disposal is strictly regulated in Malaysia. The Department of Environment (DoE) enforces dismantling and recycling rules, ensuring licensed facilities comply with environmental standards. The Scheduled Waste SW103 Protocol governs the storage, transport, and disposal of hazardous battery waste.

To enhance resource management and sustainability compliance, Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii) CEO, Azrul Reza Aziz shared that they are developing an EV Battery Passport, a digital system that tracks battery composition, origin, lifespan, and recyclability.

Additionally, MARii is positioning itself as an EV innovation hub through the Centre of Excellence for Future Industry (CoEFI), which will feature Malaysia’s first EV proving ground and testing labs to support industry growth.

Currently, only two facilities—Car Medic Sdn Bhd and Jaring Metal Industries Sdn Bhd—are licensed to process end-of-life EV batteries, with four additional recycling centers handling hazardous battery waste. MARii is working to expand these numbers to meet future demand.

To encourage private investment, Malaysia offers tax incentives such as the Green Income Tax Exemption (GITE) and Green Investment Tax Allowance (GITA), providing financial benefits to companies involved in EV maintenance, charging infrastructure, and battery recycling.

Meanwhile, the National Automotive Policy 2020 (NAP 2020) aims for a 70% recycling rate for end-of-life vehicles and plans to establish 21 licensed recycling facilities by 2030. Additionally, the National Remanufacturing Policy (NRP) supports sustainability efforts across the automotive, marine, and aerospace industries, enhancing local remanufacturing capabilities.

While expanding the battery end-of-life ecosystem is crucial, consumer education is equally important. Many consumers mistakenly believe EV batteries fail immediately after warranties expire, discouraging adoption.

In reality, with proper care, modern EV batteries can last significantly longer, making EVs a viable long-term choice for Malaysian drivers.