P.UP Mobile EV Charging Concierge Service Launches in Penang

Many of you might remember P.UP, the Singapore-based outfit that partnered with Nazamax to expand into Malaysia. We first covered their launch in Dec 2023, where they announced plans to begin service in Q1 2024.

However, things went quiet since then until this month, when P.UP finally launched, albeit only in Penang, with two mobile charging vans equipped with 50 kWh DC fast chargers.

Nazamax initially aimed to deploy nine mobile charging vans by the end of Q1 2024 and expand to a fleet of 60 to 75 by the end of the year. For those unfamiliar, P.UP offers a mobile charging concierge service. They not only charge your EV but also detail it—all without you needing to meet the team in person.

Similar to their operations in Singapore, P.UP is pushing its subscription model in Malaysia. However, they also offer ad-hoc charging and detailing at a premium. Subscription packages start at RM172/month for two charging sessions and washing, including tire shine, for EVs with batteries of 45 kWh or smaller. This works out to roughly RM2.40/kWh.

The most expensive package is RM1,037/month, covering eight charging sessions and four car washes, including tire shine, for EVs with 101-110 kWh batteries. This package offers a competitive rate of RM1.47/kWh. Both packages include parking fees (up to RM5) and waive the service fee.

Each charging session is capped at 80% SOC (to avoid wasting time due to charging curves). For ad-hoc users, the rate is RM1.70/kWh, with a RM40 service fee and parking charges. Optional detailing services include RM20 for a wash, RM10 for tire shine, and RM15 for vacuuming during charging.

At these rates, the highest package offers the best value, especially for high-mileage users who typically charge twice a week. Otherwise, the service is more about convenience than necessity.

Currently, P.UP does not provide emergency roadside assistance, though the company’s website indicates it’s coming soon.

P.UP has partnered with Mercedes-Benz Malaysia to offer special packages to buyers of its EQ series, though this is limited to Penang for now. In contrast, Gentari’s mobile charging units, which we previously featured, are available in the Klang Valley exclusively for BMW’s i-series buyers.

To grow in Malaysia, where the market differs significantly from Singapore (fewer high-rise dwellers and cheaper charging, parking, and washing options), P.UP will need more partnerships with car brands and more competitive pricing. Expanding its fleet via a franchise model and offering reasonably priced roadside assistance will be crucial for scaling nationwide.

However, P.UP should avoid mirroring Singapore’s pricing for roadside assistance, where SGD158 (RM500) buys just a 20% charge or a 12V battery jump start.

For now, all bookings in Penang must be made via WhatsApp or P.UP’s hotline (013-2139380) as their Malaysia mobile app is still in development. Payments can only be made via QR for the time being.