EPMB signs MoU with BAIC for car production, development in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: EP Manufacturing Bhd (EPMB) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with BAIC International Development Co Ltd, part of Beijing Automotive Group Co Ltd.

Under the MoU, EPMB and BAIC plan to work together on the local production of BAIC’s BJ40P and X55II sport utility vehicles (SUVs), along with future right-hand drive (RHD) internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and electric vehicles (EVs).

Both companies also agreed to jointly develop BAIC-branded RHD EVs to cater to Malaysia and other South-east Asian RHD markets.

BAIC plans to establish a sales and after-sales service network for RHD vehicles in Malaysia, and ultimately develop a local assembly and production base.

Should both companies reach a definitive agreement, EPMB will be responsible for the local assembly of BJ40P, X55II and future BAIC ICE and EV models. EPMB will also be responsible for producing parts for these vehicles in Malaysia, with the goal of obtaining policy support from the Malaysian government.