GAC and WTCA forge new path in ASEAN with CKD vehicle assembly collaboration in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: The groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd (WTCA), part of Warisan TC Holdings Bhd, and GAC Motor International Co., Ltd. (GAC Motor International), heralds a new era in the assembly of completely knocked-down (CKD) vehicles. This partnership, focused on the CKD production of GAC EMKOO for the Malaysian market and GAC GS3 EMZOOM for export to Vietnam, underscores GAC's commitment to expanding its footprint in the ASEAN market through WTCA's automotive prowess.

The signing ceremony, which celebrated the initiation of the GAC GS3 EMZOOM CKD Pre-SOP, symbolizes a swift and successful collaboration, achieving significant milestones in a mere 13 months. This venture into CKD assembly for the Malaysian and Vietnamese markets represents a strategic move to enhance GAC’s regional presence, leveraging Malaysia's industrial strengths and WTCA's expertise in automotive assembly and distribution.

Tan Keng Meng, CEO of Warisan TC Holdings, highlighted the mutual dedication to advancing CKD manufacturing capabilities in Malaysia, aiming to offer advanced mobility solutions that incorporate sustainable practices and foster economic growth. This partnership is poised to not only bring innovative automotive solutions to the ASEAN region but also strengthen Malaysia's role as a key automotive hub in Southeast Asia.

In tandem with this MOU, a CKD Technical Collaboration Agreement was established, granting WTCA the authority to assemble GAC vehicles locally, adhering to GAC's high technical and quality standards. This agreement, complemented by a Distribution Agreement, entrusts WTCA with the marketing, distribution, and service of these vehicles, marking a significant milestone in GAC’s international expansion efforts.

The collaboration kicked off with the launch of the CKD production for the GAC GS3 EMZOOM at WTCA’s Segambut facility, celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and marking the transition into full production. This achievement not only demonstrates the successful technical partnership between GAC and WTCA but also sets a precedent for future automotive manufacturing excellence.

Feng Xingya, President of GAC Group, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration's potential to bolster the China-Malaysia alliance, highlighting the importance of mutual support, cooperation, and strategic synergies to foster regional economic and social progress.

WTCA, a subsidiary of Warisan TC Motor Holdings and part of the Tan Chong Group, is set to diversify its vehicle portfolio over the next five years, including a range of GAC and GAC AION models, spanning ICE, hybrid, and electric vehicles, reinforcing its commitment to delivering diverse and cutting-edge automotive solutions in the region.

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