BYD owners get better support with Sime Motors' expanded aftersales network

KUALA LUMPUR:  As electric vehicles (EVs) gain traction in Malaysia, BYD owners now have more options for servicing and support.

Sime Motors, the official distributor of BYD in Malaysia, has expanded its aftersales network to 21 service centres nationwide, including 17 equipped with Body & Paint (B&P) services.

Photo from BYD

This move according to them is aimed at meeting the growing demands of EV ownership in the country, with a focus on convenience and coverage.

Also Read:  BYD opens first 3S Centre in East Malaysia, bringing easier EV ownership to Sabah

The expanded network spans both Peninsular and East Malaysia, covering key areas like the Klang Valley, Penang, Johor Bahru, the East Coast, Sabah, and Sarawak.

These service centres offer a range of services, including body repairs, with teams of EV-certified technicians equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and hydraulic parking bays.

The goal it seems is clear for Sime Motors and that is to ensure that BYD owners have easy access to maintenance and repair facilities wherever they are.

Photo from BYD

Sime Motors has highlighted a few key facilities that support its growing aftersales operations:

• Centralised Parts Distribution Centre (PDC): Ensures spare parts are delivered promptly to service centres to minimise delays in repairs.
• Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) Centre: Every vehicle undergoes thorough checks before reaching customers, with the facility boasting a unique three-level parking system to handle vehicles efficiently.
• Service Centres with EV-Specific Tools: BYD service centres are equipped with tools tailored for EVs, while customers can relax in comfortable lounges during servicing.
• Body & Paint (B&P) Centres: Advanced equipment and skilled technicians ensure vehicles are restored to factory standards after damage.

Sime Motors credits much of its aftersales success to its team of certified High Voltage (HV) technicians. These specialists are trained in handling EVs and undergo rigorous certification processes to keep up with industry standards.

This expertise is crucial, given the unique requirements of EV maintenance. For peace of mind, BYD vehicles also come with extensive warranty coverage:

• 6 years/150,000 km for the vehicle.
• 8 years/160,000 km for the battery (replacement included if the battery’s State of Health drops below 70%).
• 8 years/150,000 km for the drive unit.

Additionally, a 24/7 roadside assistance program ensures help is always available in case of breakdowns.

Photo from BYD

Service Packages with Price Locking

BYD also offers flexible service packages that cater to different customer needs. These packages, available in three, six, and eight-year options, allow owners to lock in current servicing costs, protecting them from price hikes.

Customers can choose between Standard and Plus tiers, depending on their vehicle usage, and even bundle the costs with car loans.

While Sime Motors’ announcements might seem routine for a growing EV brand, they signal a serious commitment to supporting the needs of BYD owners.

The network expansion and investment in facilities are steps in the right direction, especially as EV adoption continues to rise. With 2024 wrapping up, all eyes are on what BYD and Sime Motors will bring to the table in the year ahead.

From what we know so far, Denza, the luxury sub-brand from BYD, is poised to make its Malaysian debut next year with the D9, a premium all-electric MPV.

Targeting a segment traditionally dominated by stalwarts like the Toyota Alphard and Vellfire, the D9 offers a compelling alternative for those seeking a combination of luxury, technology, and a fully electric driving experience.

The question now is: will loyal Alphard and Vellfire users be tempted to make the switch to electric? With rising interest in EVs and the growing demand for sustainable luxury, it will be fascinating to see how the market responds to this newcomer.

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