Malaysia’s electric vehicle (EV) market is set to welcome a new player in 2025, adding to its rapidly growing lineup of Chinese-manufactured EVs.
The latest entrant, Deepal—a brand under Changan Automobile—plans to debut mid-year, represented locally by Bermaz Changan Sdn Bhd (BCSB), a newly established subsidiary of Bermaz Auto (BAuto), which owns an 85% stake in the company.
BAuto Takes the Helm for Deepal’s Malaysian Entry
BAuto will oversee Deepal’s local operations, managing vehicle sales, distribution, spare parts, and aftersales services. This strategic partnership signals a robust commitment to meeting Malaysia’s increasing demand for EVs and hybrid models.
Deepal’s initial offerings for the Malaysian market will be the S05 and S07, two SUVs designed to cater to diverse customer preferences.
Both models, imported as Completely Built Units (CBUs) from Changan’s new production facility in Rayong, Thailand, will be available in Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) and Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) variants.
Thailand: Changan’s Right-Hand Drive Production Hub
Changan’s Rayong facility, set to begin operations in early 2025, marks the automaker’s first overseas production hub. With a planned Phase 1 capacity of 100,000 vehicles annually, the plant will focus on producing BEVs, Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), and EREVs. This hub will cater to the growing EV demand in Thailand, Malaysia, and other regional markets.
Specifications to Watch For
- Deepal S07 BEV: Equipped with a 66.8 kWh battery, offering a range of 485 km (NEDC-rated).
- Deepal S07 EREV: Features a range-extending 1.5L engine and battery options of 18.99 kWh, 31.73 kWh, or 39.05 kWh, providing a range between 1,045 km and 1,200 km.
- Deepal S05 BEV: Comes with a 56.12 kWh battery pack, delivering a CLTC-rated range of 510 km and powered by a rear-mounted motor producing 238 hp and 320 Nm
Competition Heats Up in Malaysia’s EV Scene
As Malaysia’s EV ecosystem evolves, Deepal will face competition from other Chinese brands like the GWM Haval H6 HEV and the upcoming Jaecoo J7 PHEV.
Whether Deepal launches the S05 and S07 in both BEV and EREV variants remains to be seen, but the company’s focus on versatility and range suggests a strong push to stand out in a crowded market.
With its debut set for mid-2025, Deepal is poised to bring innovative EV solutions to Malaysia, further cementing the country’s role as a key player in Southeast Asia’s electric vehicle revolution.
Source: Autobuzz
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