8 months remain of the duty-exemption for fully electric vehicles (only those that are assembled locally will continue to enjoy the incentive after December 31, 2025) but the Chinese carmakers are not easing off on launching new EV models in Malaysia.
MG Motor Malaysia has previewed a new model – the MGS5 EV – which will be added to its range soon (with a launch possibly during the 2025 Malaysia Auto Show next month) with an estimated price of RM115,000.
The MGS5 EV is a fairly new model, having been launched in China just 6 months ago. The B-segment electric SUV, purpose-built for Malaysian roads, is said to be part of a fresh new chapter for MG in this market.
Customers will have a choice of 2 battery sizes – 49 kWh or 62.2 kWh – powering a 125 kW (170 ps)/250 Nm motor mounted at the rear. With the larger battery, the range is claimed to be up to 430 kms and fast recharging can be done with a DC supply of up to 150 kW.
Like many EVs today, the MGS5 EV can function as a ‘mobile powerbank’ with its Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) feature. This allows charging of external devices or equipment with 6.6 kW of AC power drawn from the battery – great for going camping.
Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12.8-inch Central Control Screen with Voice Control and a 10.25-inch’ Instrument Cluster. With the version having the 62.2 kWh battery, there are also 18-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, powered tailgate, leather and fabric combination seats with MG perforated pattern, a heated leather steering wheel, power-adjustable driver’s seat, 6 premium audio speakers, rear reading lamps, rain-sensing wipers and a 360-degree surround view camera.
“The MGS5 EV sets the standard for what drivers can expect from our brand, with best-in-class driving dynamics for this segment and marks a significant step forward in our electric journey,” said Emory Qifeng, Managing Director of SAIC Motor Malaysia, which manages the MG brand.