National automaker Perodua has partnered with three local universities, namely Universiti Utara Malaysia, Universiti Putra Malaysia, and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology) to introduce its new app-based car rental service, Perodua UCar-e.
This new car rental platform is part of the automaker’s “Mobility as a Lifestyle” concept initiative, which emphasises transforming the “driving experience from conventional vehicle ownership into a more service-orientated mobility solution”.
50 Perodua Vehicles to be Deployed at Selected Universities
For its initial phase, Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad said a total of 50 Perodua vehicles will be deployed at these selected universities, where they can be used by students and staff via the UCar-e platform.
He further explained that the UCar-e application enables users to locate vehicles parked at designated locations within the campus. Users are also provided with specific parking zones where the vehicles can be returned after use.
“Perodua is also working closely with the respective universities to appoint students to manage the vehicles, including maintaining cleanliness, monitoring fuel level, and ensuring proper upkeep. In return, the student will receive commission-based payments.
“By responsibly appointing students as vehicle management agents, we are also incorporating entrepreneurship training and exposure for the younger generation, which is an essential life skill,” the P2 boss said.
Service to Commence from June 2026 Onwards
The Perodua UCar-e app-based car rental service is expected to commence from June 2026 onwards, with implementation taking place in stages depending on each university’s readiness and rollout schedules.
Besides helping varsity members with their mobility needs, the introduction of the UCar-e service is also part of Perodua’s broader efforts to expand its automotive business through innovative mobility services aligned with evolving consumer trends and lifestyle preferences.
“We realise that many from Gen Z are more interested in the driving experience rather than owning a vehicle, as the maintenance costs, limited parking availability, and traffic congestion are encouraging them to seek alternative mobility solutions,” Dato’ Sri Zainal added.
