Cover Chinese EV manufacturers’ are rapidly expanding in Malaysia, intensifying competition and reshaping market dynamics (Photo: Getty Images)
Chinese EV manufacturers’ are rapidly expanding in Malaysia, intensifying competition and reshaping market dynamics (Photo: Getty Images)
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From stylish city commuters to sleek family cars, Chinese EVs are making a bold statement in Malaysia and here are the brands that have entered the market
The global automotive landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, and Malaysia is no exception. As the world accelerates toward a greener future, electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as the frontrunners of innovation.
In recent years, Malaysia has seen a surge of EVs entering the market from China, driven by an increasingly competitive global landscape, government incentives, and improving infrastructure. Chinese EV brands, known for their rapid advancements in battery technology, affordability, and futuristic designs, are quickly capturing the attention of local consumers.
Read more: The Denza D9 makes its Malaysian debut
BYD
Above The newly launched BYD Sealion
The newly launched BYD Sealion
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BYD has been one of Malaysia's most prominent Chinese EV brands, making waves with models like the Atto 3 and the Dolphin. Its Blade Battery technology enhances battery lifespan and safety, positioning BYD as a formidable player in the market.
Great Wall Motors (GWM)
The Ora Good Cat by GWM has become a favourite among city dwellers. It offers a stylish retro-modern design, efficient battery range, and affordability. This compact EV is particularly popular among young professionals and urban drivers.
Denza
Above The Denza D9
The Denza D9
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Denza, originally a joint venture between BYD and Mercedes-Benz, is now a wholly-owned subsidiary of BYD. Leveraging BYD’s advanced EV technology while maintaining luxury design elements, Denza introduced the D9 MPV in Malaysia, with the Denza Z9 GT expected to follow soon.
Chery
Above The Chery Omoda E5
The Chery Omoda E5
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Chery has been in Malaysia for some time, making a strong comeback in 2022 with models like the Omoda 5, Tiggo 7 Pro, and Tiggo 8 Pro. While most of its lineup are ICE and PHEVs, it does have the all-electric Omoda E5 which has gained traction among consumers since its launching.
Neta
Neta Auto debuted in Malaysia last year under GoAuto Group, offering the Neta V hatchback and the Neta X SUV. Designed with cost-efficiency in mind, Neta’s offering aims to cater to a younger and more dynamic demographic.
Aion
Aion, a subsidiary of GAC Group, made its Malaysian debut with two eye-catching models—the compact Aion Y Plus MPV and the sleek ES sedan. As one of China’s largest battery EV brands, Aion is making waves with its stylish and sustainable approach to driving.
Dongfeng
Above The Dongfeng Box
The Dongfeng Box
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Dongfeng entered the Malaysian market with the Dongfeng Box, an entry-level hatchback. While this is its first consumer EV in Malaysia, its electric commercial van, the EC35, has been available since 2022.
JAC
Above The JAC T9 EV
The JAC T9 EV
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JAC Group, based in Hefei, China, is known for its commercial vehicles. In Malaysia, alongside its diesel-powered T9 Grand ES twin, JAC also previewed its all-electric T9 EV variant, making it the first and only electric pick-up on sale in Malaysia.
Leapmotor
Specialising in EVs since 2015, Leapmotor has introduced its all-electric SUV, the C10 model last year. The D-segment five-seater goes on sale here in a sole variant form and looks to compete against some established and upcoming EV SUV brands here in Malaysia.
Don’t miss: Great Wall Motor showcases sustainable innovation at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show 2024
Zeekr
Above The Zeekr X
The Zeekr X
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Geely’s premium EV brand, Zeekr, has also entered Malaysia with the 009, an electric MPV and the Zeekr X, a sleek, compact luxury SUV, in 2024. Positioned to compete with Western luxury EVs, Zeekr looks to attract a more tech-savvy and performance-driven demographic.
Xpeng
Above The Xpeng G6
The Xpeng G6
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Xpeng joined the Malaysian market last year with the fastback coupe SUV, the Xpeng G6. Available in two variants—580 Pro and 755 Pro—Xpeng markets its EV as futuristic and exhilarating in terms of performance.
What’s next?
Above The Jaecoo J6
The Jaecoo J6
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2025 is poised to be a pivotal year for Malaysia’s EV market, fueled by increasing sales and government commitments to infrastructure improvements. One of the most anticipated entrants (though no official news has been announced) is Nio, a leading Chinese EV brand known for its innovative battery-swapping stations, which provide a faster alternative to traditional charging stations.
Additionally, following the success of its ICE and PHEV models, Jaecoo is likely to introduce its all-electric J6, a youthful gateway model positioned below the J7, signalling the brand’s commitment to electric mobility.
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Sim Wie Boon is the general manager of Tatler Malaysia. Previously the print and digital editor, Sim hails from the land of the hornbills, Sarawak. Sim is now based in Kuala Lumpur and brings more than a decade of experience in the media industry as a journalist and broadcast producer.
As a self-proclaimed geriatric millennial, he appreciates the finer things in life, from savouring a sip of single malt whisky to relishing in the deliciousness of char siew. While reminiscing about the indie-sleaze era, Sim now finds solace in the soothing tunes of ambient music, staying active through running and occasionally succumbing to the addictive world of doom scrolling.
Follow him on Instagram or Threads at @simwb
