EPMB Signs Eight-Year Vehicle Assembly Agreement With Great Wall Motor

As a major participant in the assembly and production of specific GWM models in Malaysia for the next eight years, EP Manufacturing Bhd (EPMB) announced that its subsidiary PEPS-JV (Melaka) Sdn Bhd (PJVM) has been appointed as the contract vehicle assembler for the Malaysian branch of China's Great Wall Motor Co Ltd (GWM).

The Haval H6, a mid-size sports utility vehicle (SUV), and the Haval Jolion are the first models that EPMB will assemble and produce, according to the vehicle assembly agreement that the two parties signed on Wednesday.

"From the group's perspective, the decision to venture into car assembly reflects EPMB's steadfast commitment to vertically integrate our operation. This strategic move presents a prime opportunity to expand our revenue streams and broaden our business portfolio," EPMB group chief executive officer Ahmad Razlan Mohamed said in a statement.

"Moreover, our involvement in GWM's inaugural CKD (completely knocked down) project in Asean demonstrates our agility and ability to adapt to global automotive market demand. This expansion reinforces EPMB's dedication to innovation, customer satisfaction, and our continual pursuit of excellence in the dynamic automotive industry," he added.

The group's car manufacturing plant, which is situated in Melaka's Hicom Pegoh Industrial Park, will serve as the hub for assembly and production activities. By 2028, EPMB wants to produce 20,000 units a year.

In addition to GWM, the Hicom Pegoh Industrial Park will serve the needs of Beijing Automotive Group Co Ltd (BAIC) for vehicle production.

A memorandum of understanding between EPMB and BAIC International was signed in August 2023, opening the door for the local production of right-hand drive internal combustion engine vehicles, electric vehicles, and the BJ40P and X55II SUVs made by BAIC.