Zeekr Malaysia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with DC Handal to expand the EV charging network along the North-South Expressway (NSE) — a move that directly addresses one of the biggest concerns for Malaysian EV drivers: long-distance charging access.
The partnership’s first phase will deliver 7 new EV charging locations along the NSE, each equipped with a minimum of 2 charging points and a minimum output of 120kW. For Zeekr’s growing base of more than 4,000 customers in Malaysia, this means more confidence for road trips between Penang and Johor Bahru.
What the Zeekr x DC Handal Partnership Covers
The collaboration focuses on leveraging DC Handal’s existing fast-charging expertise across key Malaysian transport routes. Here’s what we know so far:
| Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Phase 1 locations | 7 along North-South Expressway |
| Minimum charging points per site | 2 |
| Minimum output per charger | 120kW |
| DC Handal max current capability | Up to 400kW (640kW future-ready) |
| Partnership type | Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) |
The key advantage here is DC Handal’s hardware capability. The company already operates 400kW Autel HiPower DC chargers — including Southeast Asia’s first such installation at Johor Premium Outlets — with infrastructure that’s future-ready for up to 640kW output as grid capacity improves.
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Why This Matters for Malaysian EV Drivers
The North-South Expressway is the backbone of Peninsular Malaysia — stretching 772km from Bukit Kayu Hitam at the Thai border to Johor Bahru. It’s the route most Malaysians take for balik kampung trips, business travel between KL and Penang, and cross-state commutes.
While the NSE already has EV chargers from networks like JomCharge, Gentari Go, ChargEV, Shell Recharge, and TNB Electron at major rest stops every 50–80km, adding more fast-charging points reduces wait times and eliminates range anxiety — especially during peak travel seasons like Hari Raya and Chinese New Year.
DC Handal’s Competitive Pricing
DC Handal offers some of the most competitive DC fast-charging rates in Malaysia:
- RM1.00/kWh at select locations (The Exchange TRX, Pantai Sentral Park)
- RM1.30/kWh at locations like Amanjaya Walk, Sungai Petani
- RM1.50/kWh at high-speed 400kW sites (WCE Taiping Selatan)
Pricing for the 7 new NSE locations hasn’t been confirmed yet, but if DC Handal maintains its current rate structure, drivers can expect rates between RM1.00 and RM1.50 per kWh — competitive with other major CPOs.
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Zeekr’s Growing Presence in Malaysia
This charging partnership comes as Zeekr cements its position as Malaysia’s #1 premium EV brand in 2026. The numbers tell the story:
- More than 4,000 cumulative units sold in under two years
- 1,214 registrations in Jan–Apr 2026 alone
- #4 overall among all EV brands in Malaysia (JPJ data)
- 3 models currently available: Zeekr 7X, Zeekr 009, Zeekr X
Current Zeekr Malaysia Pricing (2026)
| Model | Starting Price | Top Variant |
|---|---|---|
| Zeekr X | RM155,800 | — |
| Zeekr 7X RWD Standard | RM182,800 | AWD Performance: RM230,800 |
| Zeekr 009 Executive | RM310,000 | Grand: RM359,800 |
The Zeekr 7X remains the brand’s best-seller with 2,509 units of the cumulative total. It supports DC fast charging up to 200kW, meaning it can take full advantage of DC Handal’s 120kW minimum — and even faster at locations with 400kW chargers.
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Malaysia’s EV Charging Infrastructure: Where Are We Now?
| Metric | Status |
|---|---|
| Total public chargers | 5,624 (as of Dec 2025) |
| Original 2025 target | 10,000 |
| Achievement rate | 56.24% |
| DC fast chargers deployed | 1,791 (exceeded 1,500 target by ~19%) |
| KL & Penang | Exceeded local deployment goals (March 2026) |
While Malaysia missed its ambitious 10,000-charger target for 2025, the DC fast-charging segment actually exceeded expectations — which is the more important metric for highway travel and the segment that this Zeekr x DC Handal partnership directly supports.
EV sales are also surging, with registrations jumping 58.5% year-on-year to 4,717 units in March 2026 alone. More EVs on the road means more charging demand — making infrastructure partnerships like this one increasingly critical.
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Who Is DC Handal?
For those unfamiliar, DC Handal is a Malaysian Charge Point Operator (CPO) that has carved out a niche in DC fast-charging infrastructure. Key highlights:
- Coverage: Operates across Peninsular Malaysia and Sarawak (via SEDC Energy partnership)
- Hardware: Deploys Autel MaxiCharger DC HiPower systems
- Speed: Currently offers chargers from 50kW to 400kW — with 640kW-ready infrastructure
- Payment: Accepts credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay (no app required for many stations)
- Notable sites: Johor Premium Outlets (400kW), WCE Taiping Selatan (400kW), The Exchange TRX, Plaza Mont Kiara
What’s Next for the Partnership?
The MoU signals intent, and Phase 1 — the 7 NSE locations — is the immediate deliverable. Key questions going forward:
- Exact locations: Will the 7 sites be at existing R&R stops, or standalone charging hubs?
- Timeline: No confirmed deployment date has been announced yet
- Speed tiers: Will all 7 locations get 120kW, or will some receive 240kW or 400kW chargers?
- Phase 2 expansion: Could additional locations beyond the NSE follow?
If you’re a Zeekr owner planning long-distance trips, this is promising news. More DC fast chargers along the NSE means shorter detours and faster top-ups — especially if DC Handal deploys their higher-speed 240kW or 400kW units at strategic locations.
ALSO READ: EV Charger Installation Malaysia — Condo & Landed
Should You Factor This Into Your EV Purchase Decision?
If you’re considering a Zeekr 7X or any EV in Malaysia, charging infrastructure is a real decision factor. Here’s the practical takeaway:
- NSE coverage is already decent — chargers exist every 50–80km from multiple CPOs
- This partnership adds redundancy — more options mean less waiting during peak travel
- DC Handal’s pricing is competitive — RM1.00–1.50/kWh is reasonable for DC fast charging
- 400kW capability is future-proof — even if Phase 1 starts at 120kW, the hardware can scale
For a KL-to-Penang trip in a Zeekr 7X Long Range (with a 75kWh battery and WLTP range of 470km), you’d likely need one charging stop. At 120kW, a 10–80% charge takes roughly 30 minutes — enough time for a teh tarik at the R&R.
Looking for a home charger to complement your public charging? Browse EV chargers at evsifu.com.my for the best deals on home charging solutions in Malaysia.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many EV charging locations will Zeekr and DC Handal add to the North-South Expressway?
The first phase of the partnership will add 7 EV charging locations along the North-South Expressway, each with a minimum of 2 charging points.
What charging speed will the new Zeekr x DC Handal stations offer?
Each location will have a minimum output of 120kW. However, DC Handal’s infrastructure supports up to 400kW currently and is future-ready for 640kW, so speeds may vary by location.
How much does DC Handal charge per kWh in Malaysia?
DC Handal’s pricing ranges from RM1.00 to RM1.50 per kWh depending on the location and charger speed. Pricing for the 7 new NSE locations hasn’t been announced yet.
Is Zeekr the best-selling premium EV brand in Malaysia?
Yes. As of April 2026, Zeekr is Malaysia’s #1 premium EV brand based on JPJ registration data, with more than 4,000 cumulative units sold and 1,214 registrations in Jan–Apr 2026.
How many EV charging stations does Malaysia have in 2026?
Malaysia had 5,624 public EV chargers as of December 2025, with over 1,700 DC fast chargers exceeding the government’s original target. Kuala Lumpur and Penang have both exceeded their local charger deployment goals.
Can non-Zeekr EVs use DC Handal chargers?
Yes. DC Handal chargers are open to all EV brands. They use standard CCS2 connectors for DC fast charging and Type 2 connectors for AC charging, compatible with most EVs sold in Malaysia.
What payment methods does DC Handal accept?
DC Handal accepts credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay at most stations — no dedicated app required for payment at many locations.
Sources: SoyaCincau, New Straits Times, paultan.org, DC Handal, ZigWheels Malaysia