In a groundbreaking stride for Malaysia’s automotive industry, a new era of electric vehicle (EV) production has dawned with the recent inauguration of Proton’s first-ever EV manufacturing facility in Tanjong Malim, Perak. This development, realized through a strategic alliance with Zhejiang Geely Holding Ltd, marks a significant milestone for the national carmaker and positions Malaysia as an emerging hub for EV innovation in Southeast Asia. A standout announcement from this venture is that Zeekr, a premium EV brand under the Geely umbrella, will soon begin producing completely knocked-down (CKD) models at this cutting-edge plant. This move not only highlights the facility’s potential to transform the local EV market but also underscores a broader trend of global brands leveraging localized production to enhance accessibility and competitiveness. As Malaysia steps into this electrified future, the implications for consumers, industry growth, and sustainability goals are profound, setting the stage for a dynamic shift in the regional automotive landscape.
Pioneering EV Production in Malaysia
The new Proton EV facility represents a leap forward with an initial production capacity of 20,000 units annually, scalable to an impressive 45,000 units as demand grows. This state-of-the-art plant is designed to incorporate advanced technology, ensuring the output of world-class electric vehicles that meet global standards. Proton’s leadership has emphasized the plant’s role in driving innovation and sustainability, aligning with national aspirations to reduce carbon footprints in transportation. Beyond just numbers, the facility’s ability to produce CKD models for Zeekr offers a strategic advantage by potentially lowering costs through local assembly, making premium EVs more attainable for Malaysian consumers. This development also opens doors for other high-end brands within the Geely Group to utilize the plant, promising a diverse range of electric models on the market. Such scalability and adaptability position the facility as a cornerstone of Malaysia’s ambition to become a key player in the regional EV sector, fostering economic growth and technological advancement in the process.
Strengthening Market Presence Through Local Assembly
Zeekr’s decision to assemble CKD models locally is a game-changer for its market strategy in Malaysia, where it has already gained traction with popular models like the Zeekr X and Zeekr 009. By establishing a National Sales Company and partnering with a prominent dealership, the brand has laid a solid foundation for growth. Local production is expected to enhance supply chain efficiency and reduce pricing barriers, making Zeekr vehicles more competitive against other EV offerings in the region. This aligns with a wider industry trend, as global players like BYD and Leapmotor also pursue CKD operations in Malaysia to capitalize on cost benefits and market proximity. The ripple effect of such initiatives strengthens the domestic automotive ecosystem, creating jobs and fostering skill development in EV technology. Reflecting on this progress, the launch of Proton’s facility marked a historic moment, with Zeekr’s involvement signaling a strong commitment to innovation that continues to shape a promising future for accessible electric mobility in Malaysia.
