Ahead of Auto Shanghai which is set to happen later this month, it is revealed that Zeekr, the Geely premium electric sub-brand may soon make its way to Malaysia. The news comes as part of the Malaysian Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI)’s investment mission to China.
Zeekr’s upcoming arrival to Malaysia was indirectly announced through Smart Malaysia’s Facebook post that reads, “The delegation test-drove various EV models, including the Smart #1 and were thoroughly impressed by the premium design and advanced technology of the EV cars from Geely and Zeekr, heightening the anticipation of their arrival to Malaysia, with the Smart #1 expected to be the first on the road.”
Over the past few days, Malaysian Minister of International Trade and Industry, Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Aziz has been seen testing several Chinese electric cars during his visit. Through the images that he has shared on social media, it can be seen that he has test-drove the Zeekr 001 and even the soon-to-launch Lotus Eletre electric car.
Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Aziz’s delegation to China included MITI, MIDA, MATRADE, DRB-HICOM, and local car maker Proton. The visit takes place just a few weeks ahead of Auto Shanghai which is set to happen later this month. Stay tuned for that as AutoBuzz.my will be covering the international motorshow.
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Through his social media accounts, Tengku Zafrul was also seen in talks with Chery for investments in Malaysia. Through the investment mission, it was reported that the ministry has secured RM170 billion in foreign direct investments. Malaysia has also secured RM2.44 billion in potential exports.
Under the Geely umbrella, the Zeekr 001 shares design traits with the Lynk & Co 01. The first electric car under the Geely group that will make it to Malaysia is the Smart #1. It will be distributed by PRO-NET, which is a new energy subsidiary of Proton.
Proton later released a press statement on the ministry’s visit to the Ningbo plant. The event saw the signing of a Heads of Agreement (HOA) document between DRB-HICOM and Geely that sealed their commitment to jointly invest, manage, and develop the Automotive High Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjung Malim into a smart city and hub for Next Generation Vehicles (NxGV). Over the next 10 years, AHTV is expected to attract investments worth an estimated RM32 billion.
Proton Chairman, Dato’s Sri Syed Faisal Albar said, “I am pleased to highlight after five years into their partnership, Proton and Geely have made great strides in bringing new products, technology, and investment to Malaysia. Following the signing of the HOA in Beijing on 1 April, it is now clear AHTV has great potential to attract RM32 billion of investment and today’s visit to Ningbo demonstrates the PROTON and Geely partnership will continue to prosper with the future implementation of NEV programmes.”
“We acknowledge the importance of Malaysia becoming the regional hub for NxGV products hence Proton as the national brand will play an active role in contributing significantly towards achieving the nation’s goals. To be competitive, Proton and the automotive ecosystem must invest in research and development (R&D), as well as advanced manufacturing processes. With progressive development of AHTV and constant engagement among stakeholders especially the Government of Malaysia, DRB-HICOM, Geely Group, Proton and automotive ecosystem, these goals are within reach.”
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