When it comes time to sell this Perodua Myvi Alphard, will JPJ allow the name change or not?
In Johor, a Perodua Myvi owner has taken car customization to an intriguing (read: illegal) new level by modifying the front end of their vehicle to resemble a Toyota Alphard, a luxury MPV known for its bold and sophisticated design. So how will he settle this with JPJ?
This modification involves extensive alterations, including the reshaping of the grille, headlights, and bumpers, transforming the Myvi’s compact hatchback into an almost unrecognizable version of the iconic Toyota Alphard. Only in the front though, from every other angle, this Myvi is still as Myvi as ever.
Moreover, the Myvi, a popular subcompact car in Malaysia, is known for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability, but this transformation showcases the owner’s creativity and desire to stand out on the road. The owner’s decision to modify the car in such an extreme manner is a testament to the growing trend of automotive personalization in Malaysia.
Many car enthusiasts are opting for unique modifications to express their individuality or to create a more luxurious look, regardless of the base vehicle’s class. In this case, the Alphard-inspired front end serves as a striking contrast to the Myvi’s typical design, likely sparking curiosity and admiration from onlookers.
However, this kind of modification raises an important question, which is, will JPJ approve such changes when it comes time to sell the vehicle or for registration purposes? In Malaysia, car modifications are subject to the regulations set by the JPJ and the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA), so this is highly unlikely.
On top of that, these guidelines are in place to ensure that modified vehicles comply with safety standards, including structural integrity, lighting, and emission controls. While cosmetic changes such as the one made to the Myvi’s front end might be seen as enhancing the car’s appearance, it could also result in complications during inspections, especially if the modifications affect the vehicle’s roadworthiness or violate any regulations regarding vehicle identification.
JPJ may require the owner to revert the modifications to the original design for approval, particularly if the changes interfere with the vehicle’s compliance with registration and safety standards. Poor Myvi, well at least it got to be an Alphard for a while. Now all that remains is for us to sit back and wait for the owner to sell the car and then we will have to see the car reverted to its original form.
