The local assembly (CKD) of the GWM Haval H6 HEV in Malaysia has just reached its 1,000-unit milestone. Launched here in October this year, the GWM Haval H6 is currently manufactured at EP Manufacturing Berhad’s (EPMB) facility in Melaka, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Peps-JV Melaka (PJVM).
Production of the hybrid C-segment SUV began in September this year, after PJVM was appointed as the contract vehicle assembler for GWM in Malaysia earlier this year. The contract is for a period of eight years.
In addition to its production milestone, EPMB says that through its facilities in Kulim, Tanjung Malim, Batang Kali, Shah Alam, and Melaka, it had also begun localising critical components for GWM vehicles, including seats, front frame steering, suspension systems, brake components, rear axle modules inclusive of suspension and braking systems, instrument panels, and other interior trims.
More components for the Haval H6 HEV will be localised starting from the second quarter of next year, the company adds.
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With the delivery of the 1,000th CKD GWM Haval H6 HEV, EPMB says that it has now successfully completed “Phase 1” of its manufacturing operations. Moving into Phase 2, the company aims to expand its facility’s annual production capacity up to 30,000 vehicles (currently 15,000), supported by a cumulative investment of RM240 million for land, factory infrastructure, and assembly equipment.
EPMB also says that it is now laying the groundwork for Phase 3 of its plans, which will focus on establishing body and chassis manufacturing facilities, including painting processes. The construction of these facilities is estimated to be completed in 24 months.
The company is also now undergoing preparations to begin production of the GWM Haval Jolion HEV in April 2025, which will then be followed by the Wey 80 MPV later in the year – the latter was recently previewed at the 2024 Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show, hinting at a local launch in Malaysia soon.
In a press release, EPMB mentions that the luxury MPV model will be catered to the ASEAN market, which could also mean that export plans for the model is also in the works.
Aside from GWM, EPMB has also signed contract manufacturing agreements with BAIC in Malaysia. The company says the X55 and BJ40 Plus SUV models are expected to commence CKD works next year, although news from the marque has simmered down significantly after its initial announcements earlier this year.
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