Singapore Hits EV Milestone as Region Embraces xEV Future

Singapore’s push towards cleaner mobility is gaining momentum, with electric vehicles (EVs) making up a record 40.2% of new car registrations in the first quarter (Q1) of 2025. This marks a sharp rise from 33.6% in 2024 and 18.1% in 2023.

This trend mirrors what’s happening in neighbouring Malaysia where EV uptake is also growing. In March 2025, EV registrations rose by 43.2% from the previous month, climbing from 1,370 units in February to 1,963 units.

While fully electric vehicles often grab the spotlight, both countries are clearly moving toward a broader goal: electrification in all its forms. This includes not just EVs, but also hybrids (HEVs), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and range-extender EVs (REEVs) – collectively known as xEVs.

Hence, even if EV sales fluctuate, these electrified alternatives continue to play a vital role in the transition from traditional internal combustion engines.

PHEV, which in some newer models can run up to 100 KM on electric power - perfect for the daily commute and mild-hybrids, which use energy recovered from braking to improve efficiency, are examples of this shift. This offer a practical middle ground for consumers while technology and infrastructure for full EVs continue to evolve.

Singapore has also taken firm regulatory steps. Since Jan 2025 where no new diesel cars can be registered. Looking ahead, from 2030, only xEVs or hydrogen-powered vehicles will be allowed for new registrations. However, existing petrol and diesel vehicles can still be used, with their Certificates of Entitlement (COE) eligible for renewal.

Taken together, these developments in Singapore and Malaysia show that Southeast Asia is taking a realistic and inclusive approach to cleaner mobility - one that values all forms of electrified transport in the shift toward sustainability.

Source: The Straits Times