10 Chinese Automotive Brands in Malaysia

For decades, the Malaysian automotive industry has been dominated by leading automotive brands from the East and West, such as the United States, Europe, and not forgetting the Land of the Rising Sun, Japan.

Not to be forgotten, the contributions of two national automotive brands such as Proton and Perodua, which have provided significant transportation benefits and job opportunities to the local population.

However, in recent years, we have witnessed several Chinese automotive brands entering the domestic market, offering a lineup of products that are able to capture attention at more affordable prices.

Below is a list of Chinese automotive brands that have already established a presence here, as well as some new brands that are set to make an appearance in the future:

 

BYD

Under the umbrella of Sime Darby Motors, BYD introduces a range of electric vehicles (EVs) such as Atto 3, Dolphin, and Seal.

 

BAIC

A new brand that recently entered the Malaysian market this year with two SUVs set to be launched soon, namely BJ40 Plus and X55.

It is understood that both SUVs will be offered in Completely Built-Up (CBU) versions before locally assembled (CKD) versions follow later.

 

Chery

Chery is among the Chinese automotive brands that have had a presence in Malaysia for some time.

The brand made a comeback in Malaysia in 2022, showcasing attractive models under specialized portfolios such as Jaecoo (J7), Jetour (X70 Plus, Dashing), Tiggo (7 Pro, 8 Pro), and Omoda (5, E5).

 

GAC

Under WTC Automotive, GAC entered the Malaysian market with the B-segment SUV model GS3 in 2022.

It then replaced the model with the second-generation GS3 Emzoom, followed by the introduction of the EV model GAC Aion Y Plus this year.

 

Great Wall Motors

Great Wall Motors has also long been established in Malaysia, before its operations were taken over by the subsidiary company, Great Wall Motors Malaysia.

Under GWM, there are several main sub-brands to take note of, such as Ora (Good Cat, 07), Tank (Tank 300), Haval (H6 Hybrid), and Cannon (Ultra).

 

Maxus

Maxus is a Chinese automotive brand that focuses heavily on commercial models like the T60 pickup truck, panel and window vans, electric-powered delivery van eDeliver 3, large MPV G10, and futuristic electric-powered MPV MIFA 9.

 

Neta

This EV brand made its official debut in Malaysia last year, under the management of the subsidiary company GoAuto Group.

So far, Neta Auto already offers two EV models, the hatchback Neta V and the SUV Neta X.

 

Leapmotor

Established in 2015, Leapmotor is a company that specializes in electric vehicles.

Now under Stellantis, the brand is expected to enter the Malaysian market in the fourth quarter of this year (Q4 2024) as an affordable EV brand.

 

Xpeng

Another Chinese EV brand set to enter Malaysia is Xpeng, after its distribution rights were acquired by Bermaz Auto.

At the moment, no specific launch date has been announced regarding the official debut of this brand in the local market.

 

Zeekr

A premium EV brand owned by Geely, Zeekr is expected to make its official debut this year, following a collaboration with Sentinel Automotive.

Two exciting models set to arrive in Malaysia are the electric SUV Zeekr X and the luxurious minivan Zeekr 009.