Chinese-based EV automaker Dongfeng and its local distributor Volt Auto have reaffirmed their long-term commitment to the Malaysian automotive market during a recent media luncheon, where both companies shared updates on their business direction and expansion plans in the country.
Local EV Expansion Plans Go Ahead, Says Dongfeng
Volt Auto Founder and CEO Soh Ming addressed the recent announcement by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) regarding the minimum CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value requirement of RM200,000 for fully imported (CBU) electric vehicles. In particular, Chinese EV giant BYD has sparked a dispute against the authorities and halted its local CKD plans shortly after the announcement.
On Dongfeng and Volt Auto’s part, both parties believe the move could serve as a reset for the local EV industry while encouraging manufacturers and distributors to adopt a longer-term and committed approach in Malaysia. Volt Auto also confirmed that local assembly plans are already included in its roadmap for this year, in line with the government’s direction for the development of Malaysia’s electric vehicle sector.
The distributor stated that additional details regarding its CKD assembly plans will be announced once existing confidentiality obligations are lifted. In addition, it reaffirms that aftersales support remains a key consideration when selecting dealership partners, as the company aims to strengthen long-term ownership support and customer service for Malaysian consumers.
Pokdepinion: Situation seems pretty fluid at the moment, we’ll have to wait and see.
