GAC teamed up with Tan Chong for CKD operations; next-gen GS3 launch soon

KUALA LUMPUR: The Chinese automaker GAC Motor made its entry in Malaysia in late 2021 with the launch of the previous-gen GS3 SUV. And, now after almost one and half years, it is set to initiate the local assembly of cars here in association with WTC Automotif (WTCA). This is GAC’s first-ever CKD programme in the world. 

The WTCA is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Warisan TC Holdings (Tan Chong Group). The project involves a total investment of over RM 60 million for the manufacturing of the next-gen GAC GS3 and expanding the brand’s presence in Malaysia. The amount will also be spent on fulfilling the model-specific requirements at Tan Chong’s Segambut plant where the local assembly will take place. 

The CKD production will commence in April 2024, with sales expected to begin in the mid of the next year.

Upon announcing the CKD project, GAC Group Vice President and GAC International Chairman, Yu Jun said, “GAC has always placed utmost priority on delivering superior quality cars. We are confident that with its wide experience in the automotive industry, WTCA can meet our high manufacturing quality standards. We will be expecting that with 3-5 years development, the production and sales will reach 50,000 units. In order to fulfil this target, GAC will continue to coordinate internal and external resources and increase support for the Malaysian market, accelerate the launch of key models, improve the model matrix, and provide more intelligent and higher-quality vehicle products for local consumers.”

Warisan TC Holdings Chief Executive Officer, Tan Keng Meng said, “We are confident that with our Tan Chong Group’s years of experience and our latest investment in our facility, we will meet GAC’s expectations. Our team has a strong collaboration with the GAC team to ensure that we are able to meet the GAC Quality Standards. GAC has set a very high standard in the automotive industry as they have dominated the Top 1 in China’s JD Power Initial Quality Survey for eight consecutive years.”

A brief on the upcoming GAC GS3

The second-gen GS3 launched in China in March this year. Compared to the outgoing version, it is a completely new model based on the brand’s latest GPMA (GAC Global Platform Modular Architecture) platform. It is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine that kicks out a maximum power of 177 PS and peak torque of 270 Nm. The new GAC GS3 price in China starts from CNY 85,800, which is approximately equivalent to RM 55k.

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