EP Manufacturing Bhd (EPMB) has announced the commencement of “Phase 2” of its Melaka plant, which will see the contract manufacturing facility increase its annual production capacity to 30,000 units – up from 6,000 units.
The launch of Phase 2 coincides with the production roll-off of the first locally assembled (CKD) GWM Wey G9 at the same facility.
The boost in numbers will in part be contributed by MG Motor Malaysia, who are slated to begin pilot production in February 2026. Additionally, The Star also reports that the BAIC X55 and BJ40 Plus have both completed pilot production trial in November, and is set to begin mass production in January 2026.
BAIC, short for as Beijing Automotive Industry Holding, first debuted in the Malaysian market back in 2024 with the preview of two models, the BAIC X55 and the BJ40 Plus – though not much has been heard ever since, as even its official social media pages appears to have been shut down. But now, it seems that the Chinese marque still has plans to launch its vehicles here.
RELATED: BAIC X55 debuts in Malaysia, est. RM120k – RM140k, X70 rival with 1.5L turbo engine
The BAIC X55 is a C-segment SUV slated to launch with two variants, priced from RM120,000 to RM140,000. An SUV that is slightly larger than the Proton X70, the BAIC X55 sports an exterior aesthetic reminiscent of an electric vehicle. This is highlighted by an enclosed front grille and a split-headlight design, featuring daytime running lights positioned above the main headlamp units, which are integrated into the front bumper.
It is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine producing 188 hp and 305 Nm, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) sending power to the front wheels.
The second model, the BAIC BJ40 Plus, is expected to launch in a single variant with an estimated sticker price of between RM180,000 and RM190,000.
A ladder-frame SUV that competes against the likes of the GWM Tank 300, the BJ40 Plus resembles the Jeep Wrangler, particularly in its side profile. It is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine making 224 hp and 380 Nm. This is paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, sending power to a part-time four-wheel drive (4WD) setup.
With full production of the BAIC X55 and BJ40 Plus commencing in January 2026, it is highly likely these two models will be officially launched in the Malaysian market shortly after.
In related news, EPMB also announced Phase 3 of its Melaka plant expansion plans, expected to be operational by the third quarter of 2026. This new phase will be built adjacent to Phase 2 on an adjoining eight-acre parcel of land and will incorporate in-house body painting capabilities.
ALSO READ: BAIC BJ40 Plus debuts in Malaysia, est. RM180k – RM190k, 2.0L turbo petrol, 224hp, 380Nm
