DRB-Hicom, Geely sign two MOUs with MIDA, MARii to make AHTV a global NxGV hub
DRB-HICOM Berhad and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group have signed two agreements to develop the Automotive Hi-Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjong Malim, Perak, into a global hub for Next Generation Vehicles (NxGV) and Energy Efficient Vehicles (EEV).
The first agreement signed with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), will focus on cooperation to attract investments specifically for the development of AHTV, with the aim of fostering growth, capabilities, and competitiveness in the national automotive industry.
The key focus of this cooperation is to encourage the transformation of the local automotive industry and Industry 4.0 to help Malaysia become a leading country for EEVs in ASEAN.
It also aims to transform AHTV into a global automotive hub, focusing on the production of NxGVs, smart manufacturing of high-tech automotive components, and an export base for a comprehensive global supply chain for vehicles and spare parts.
The second agreement made with the Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii), will concentrate on collaboration in research and development (R&D) and talent development for AHTV.
The scope of cooperation includes building testing and R&D centers for NxGVs, as well as establishing a National Testing and Homologation Centre specifically for EEV testing and autonomous driving.
Additionally, the parties involved have agreed to develop local expertise in critical components such as electric motors, battery management systems, and power distribution units with assistance from Geely Holding.
In the area of talent development, the collaboration will also include developing training programs focusing on NxGV and smart manufacturing, R&D, smart equipment, and production and marketing services supported by partnerships with institutions in China and Malaysia.
This includes establishing national standards for automotive SKM and TVET certification, implementing an automotive apprenticeship program, creating educational modules for high school through university levels, and conducting certification programs for digitalization and Industry 4.0 skills in manufacturing and supply chains.
