EPMB, BAIC ink 10-year vehicle assembly deal

Synergistic alliance represents convergence of Malaysian and Chinese expertise

PETALING JAYA: EP Manufacturing Bhd (EPMB) has signed another landmark vehicle assembly agreement, this time with China’s BAIC International Development Co Ltd (BAIC) to solidify a strategic partnership spanning a 10-year period.

Under the agreement, EPMB via its fully owned subsidiary, Peps-JV (Melaka) Sdn Bhd, will undertake the assembly and production of BAIC vehicles, marking a significant step towards enhancing the automotive landscape in Malaysia.

The initial models slated for production include the x55ii and BJ40+, with a lineup of electric vehicles, scheduled to debut in 2025.

BAIC will provide technical support and training, as well as guidance and supervision on the assembly and manufacturing process. It will also be responsible for the sales and marketing of the vehicles to maximise market penetration and brand visibility in Asean.

EPMB is to serve as the vehicle assembler, ensuring that BAIC’s vehicles are assembled to the highest standards of quality and performance.

This strategic partnership not only underscores EPMB’s dedication to innovation and excellence but also highlights Malaysia’s conducive business environment and skilled workforce. By leveraging EPMB’s state-of- theart facilities in Malacca and BAIC’s cuttingedge technology and expertise, the collaboration aims to meet the demand for high-quality BAIC vehicles in the Asean region and beyond.

This synergistic alliance between EPMB and BAIC represents a convergence of Malaysian and Chinese expertise with mutual growth opportunities, poising Malaysia to emerge as a pivotal destination for BAIC’s production activities, fostering growth, job creation, and technological advancement.

“I’m happy to note the positive momentum our company is gaining. EPMB is navigating a new agenda with new horizons.” said EPMB executive chairman Hamidon Abdullah (pic). “The strategic collaborations with OEMs from China signifies our commitment to chart a course towards better profitability for our stakeholders.”

This development comes a few months following the announcement of EPMB’s pioneering automotive manufacturing facility in Malacca, which upon completion will have the capacity to produce up to

30,000 vehicles a year.

EPMB signed a memorandum of understanding with BAIC

International in

August 2023, paving the way for the agreement.