Planning to buy an electric vehicle (EV) or renew your road tax? It’s important to know how much you need to pay each year.
From 1 January 2026, EV owners in Malaysia must pay road tax following the end of the previous exemption. The amount depends on the vehicle’s motor power, measured in kilowatts (kW).
Unlike petrol and diesel cars, which generally use engine capacity (cc), EVs follow a different road tax system.
This guide explains the 2026 EV road tax rates, how to calculate the cost and how to renew your road tax.
What Is EV Road Tax?
EV road tax is the annual fee you pay to the Road Transport Department Malaysia (JPJ) to use your electric car on public roads. It is also known as Lesen Kenderaan Motor (LKM).
Previously, eligible electric vehicles enjoyed a full road tax exemption until 31 December 2025. From 1 January 2026, owners must pay road tax based on the revised rates.
The amount depends on the vehicle’s motor power. In general, a more powerful EV has a higher road tax fee.
EV road tax starts at RM20 per year for vehicles with motor power of up to 50 kW. The amount increases according to the applicable motor-power band. Check the JPJ rate schedule or BJAK EV Road Tax Calculator for your vehicle’s estimated annual fee.
Is EV road tax free in Malaysia in 2026?
No. The previous full EV road tax exemption ended on 31 December 2025. From 1 January 2026, eligible EVs are subject to the revised road tax rates.
How is EV road tax calculated?
EV road tax is based on electric motor power in kW, rather than engine capacity in cc. The applicable fee depends on the motor-power band and the rate structure set by JPJ.
Is EV road tax based on battery capacity?
No. Battery capacity is measured in kWh, while motor power is measured in kW. The 2026 EV road tax structure uses motor power, not battery capacity.
Do all electric cars pay the same road tax?
No. The amount varies according to the applicable motor-power band and the vehicle’s recorded specifications. Different EV models and variants may therefore have different annual road tax costs.
Is EV road tax cheaper than petrol car road tax?
It depends on the vehicles being compared. EVs and petrol cars use different calculation methods, so compare the actual annual rates for the specific models rather than assuming one type is always cheaper.
Do hybrid cars follow the EV road tax rates?
Not necessarily. The revised EV rates apply to the specified zero-emission vehicle categories, including battery electric vehicles and fuel cell electric vehicles. Conventional hybrids and plug-in hybrids may follow different rules. Check the vehicle’s registration classification and the applicable JPJ guidelines.
Can I renew EV road tax online?
Online renewal may be available if your vehicle meets the relevant requirements. Make sure your motor insurance or takaful is valid and check the applicable renewal process before proceeding.
Nabil Farhan· · 5 min read
