BYD Malaysia has confirmed Inokom as its local assembly partner in Malaysia, following the cancellation of its CKD plant plans.
BYD local assembly partnership
BYD has confirmed that Inokom Corporation Sdn Bhd, a Sime Motors subsidiary, will serve as its local assembly partner in Malaysia. This follows the company’s decision last month to cancel plans for a completely knocked‑down (CKD) facility in Tanjung Malim, Perak.
The collaboration was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at BYD’s global headquarters in Shenzhen, China. Inokom, based in Kulim, Kedah, was selected after assessments of the local market and manufacturing capabilities.
Policy changes and cancellation of CKD plant
Reports of a contract assembly arrangement surfaced in May after the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) updated automotive policies. The new rules require automakers to export up to 80% of locally assembled vehicles and maintain a minimum domestic price of RM100,000.
BYD did not agree to these terms, leading to the cancellation of its proposed CKD plant in 2025. Despite this, the company remains committed to establishing local assembly operations in Malaysia.
Future plans and availability
BYD stated that local assembly is part of its long‑term commitment to Malaysia, with plans to bring expertise in new energy vehicles and battery technologies closer to the market. Sime Motors highlighted the partnership’s role in strengthening the automotive ecosystem and supporting local businesses.
Details of the local assembly programme have not yet been disclosed. BYD has indicated that further information will be announced in due course.
Pokdepinion: As someone looking to get their first BEV, this is a great sign that they are indeed here to stay despite all the hurdles.
