First locally-assembled Chery OMODA E5 rolls out in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: In a milestone for Chery Auto Malaysia, the first locally-assembled unit of the OMODA E5 electric vehicle rolled off the production line at the Inokom Plant.

This inaugural assembly marks Chery’s move toward boosting local manufacturing and underscores its commitment to supporting Malaysia’s shift toward sustainable mobility.

The OMODA E5, known for its sleek design and cutting-edge technology, is part of Chery's strategy to cater specifically to Malaysian customers' preferences.

With the introduction of this Completely Knocked Down (CKD) unit, Chery aims to increase its footprint in the Malaysian automotive landscape.

“Today’s roll-off of Chery’s first CKD unit of the OMODA E5 is a testament to our dedication to innovation, quality, and our commitment to the Malaysian market,” said Leo Chen, President of Chery Auto Malaysia. “By assembling our cars locally, it not only allows us to provide more competitive pricing but also signifies Chery’s long-term commitment in Malaysia, fostering job creation and skill development within the local workforce,” he added.

This step aligns with the Malaysian government’s push for localization and could help Malaysia become a regional hub for electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing, added Chen.

Highlighting the strengthened alliance between Chery and Sime Darby, Dato’ Jeffri Salim Davidson, CEO of Sime Darby Berhad, remarked, “Our expertise spans the entire automotive value chain, and assembly is a crucial area of growth and a key enabler for our Motors division. We look forward to achieving many more milestones together as we expand our facility and reaffirm our commitment to advancing sustainable mobility solutions.”

During the event, YB Liew Chin Tong, Malaysia's Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, emphasized the value of local workforce involvement. "Chery should be congratulated for the fact that 99% of their assembly workforce here are Malaysians," he stated, underscoring that Malaysia’s industrialization should focus on creating quality jobs for locals. Liew also noted Malaysia’s current BEV landscape, with 32,543 Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) registered as of September 2024—most of which are imported units.

“With this line-off ceremony, Chery joins the ranks of brands assembling EVs in Malaysia, marking a significant advancement in localizing electric vehicle production,” he said. Liew highlighted that local production has implications for Malaysia’s balance of payments, with the 2023 automotive sector importing RM62.14 billion worth of vehicles while exporting RM18.01 billion.

As a recent addition to Chery’s lineup at the Kulim facility, alongside models like the TIGGO 7 PRO, TIGGO 8 PRO, and OMODA 5, the OMODA E5 is poised to make an impact in Malaysia’s EV market.

Launched in March, this all-electric SUV boasts a robust electric drivetrain with 201hp and 340Nm of torque, a driving range of 430km (WLTP), and a 61kWh lithium iron phosphate battery capable of DC fast charging from 30% to 80% in just 28 minutes.

The OMODA E5 also comes equipped with ADAS 2.5, blending advanced sensors, AI, and connectivity to enhance driver experience.

With this local production, Chery is not only expanding its offerings but also setting a benchmark for sustainable automotive practices in Malaysia.

Also Read:  Chery Omoda E5 EV launched in Malaysia - RM147k, up to 430km range, 204PS/340Nm