SAIC Motor Malaysia, the distributor for MG Motor Malaysia, has announced the rollout of the first locally assembled (CKD) MG S5 EV. The model is produced in partnership with EP Manufacturing Berhad (EPMB) at their manufacturing facility in Pegoh, Melaka.
While the previous fully-imported (CBU) model was available in three different variants, MG Motor has streamlined the CKD MG S5 EV line-up to a single offering: the Lux variant. This shift comes as CBU units have officially sold out, making the CKD model the primary offering moving forward. Bookings are now open with an estimated price tag of RM120,000.
To celebrate the local rollout, MG Motor is offering an Early Bird promotion valued at RM10,000, which includes a RM7,000 rebate, a 7kW wallbox charger, and RM1,000 in charging credits. Owners are also covered by an eight-year/180,000km battery warranty and an eight-year/160,000km motor control unit warranty.
The CKD MG S5 EV introduces several performance improvements over its CBU predecessor. Its rear-mounted electric motor now produces 205 hp (151kW) and 350 Nm of torque. These allow 0-100 km/h in 7.1 seconds and a top speed of 170 km/h.
This represents a significant improvement over the previous model, which offered 170 hp (125kW) and 250 Nm. Despite the increased power output, the driving range has been extended to 446 km (WLTP), an increase from 430 km (WLTP) managed by the CBU Lux Long Range variant.
The range increase is attributed to improved efficiency of the electric motor and inverter, while still utilising the same 62 kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery. Charging specifications remain unchanged, supporting 6.6 kW AC and 150 kW DC fast charging for a 10-80% recharge in 26 minutes.
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The cabin of the CKD MG S5 EV has also undergone updates to its equipment. Full leatherette upholstery replaces the previous leather and fabric combination, while new comfort features include ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable front passenger seat, and a hands-free power tailgate.
While full local specifications are pending, the CKD model is expected to carry over the 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with the 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and its suite of ADAS features, which includes adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist, blind spot monitors, lane departure warning, and rear cross traffic alert.
Beyond the vehicle itself, this rollout marks the commencement of CKD operations for MG Motor Malaysia. SAIC Motor Malaysia Managing Director, Emory Qi, hinted that the company is exploring the assembly of left-hand drive (LHD) models. This move would allow the Melaka facility to serve as a strategic export hub for regional markets, potentially reaching both ASEAN neighbours like Indonesia and South Asian markets such as Sri Lanka.
The production capacity for the MG S5 EV is expected to reach between 120 and 180 units per month, with an estimated annual output of 1,500 to 2,000 vehicles in 2026. However, these figures represent only a fraction of the Pegoh facility’s total output. The plant maintains a total monthly capacity of 2,300 units, or roughly 30,000 vehicles annually, including commitments for other brands like GWM.
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