JAECOO J5 EV makes first public appearance at cat expo

After launching the J5 as its fourth model line in March 2026, OMODA | JAECOO Malaysia (OJM) will soon add a fully electric variant. It will be the brand’s first EV and as with the other models, it is assembled locally at the Chery Corporate Malaysia plant in Shah Alam, Selangor.

This means it won’t be subjected to that new condition set by MITI for EVs – those imported in CBU (completely built-up) form must have a price of not less than RM200,000.

OJM has not revealed or even indicated the price of the J5 EV which is expected to be launched in either August or September 2026. The 1.5-litre combustion engine version of the J5 is priced from RM108,000 – which is drawing many buyers – but the EV version could cost considerably more due to EV technology still being young.

First public appearance at cat expo
The J5 EV is making its first public appearance in Malaysia at the Oh My Meow! Expo 2026 on these few days at the MidValley Exhibition Centre in MidValley Megamall in Kuala Lumpur. The venue for this preview may see unusual but it is totally appropriate as one of the features of the J5 is its pet-friendliness.

What’s ‘pet-friendly’?
It’s not just ‘pet-friendly’ as a marketing gimmick but really does have some features to give pets as much pleasure on a journey as their human friends. The air conditioning filter, with its powerful filtration capabilities, effectively blocks pet hair, ensuring that the air inside the car remains fresh and clean at all times.

Even more thoughtful, the J5 is equipped with an intelligent temperature control system that automatically adjusts the cabin temperature based on real-time needs, allowing pets to enjoy a comfortable experience.

The materials are also kind to animals and won’t affect them while their durability means you won’t see scratches left by claws. For a healthier environment for both the pets and humans, there is an antibacterial health device that effectively inhibits the growth of bacteria.

The interior designers at JAECOO must be pet-lovers as we understand that there are pet-feeding devices and other accessories just for pets. If your pet could talk, it would probably be pestering you to get a J5!

Compact dimensions
Back to the J5 EV – it has the same compact size at the J5 1.5T, with an overall length of around 4.4 metres which is like that of the Proton X50. It has a generous 2620 mm wheelbase, which allows for comfortable seating for 5 persons.

At this time, what we know of the EV is that its powertrain will have a single front-mounted motor with an output of 155 kW (211 ps)/288 Nm, powered by a CATL battery with a 58.9 kWh capacity that has a potential range of around 400 kms. Recharging the battery from 30% to 80% is said to take 28 minutes with DC power supply.

The display model at MidValley has a panoramic sunroof and powered tailgate, with some differentiating trim from the combustion engine version. Drivers also benefit from a 540° HD Surround View Camera System, offering enhanced visibility during parking and low-speed manoeuvres, while the 13.2-inch 2K central infotainment display delivers an intuitive and connected user experience.

Under the bonnet is additional storage space in a bin with a 35-litre volume, while the 480-litre boot area is large enough to contain a pet-carrier and other stuff.

Delivering on commitment
For those who were unhappy with the impending reduction in choices of EVs under RM200,000 in future, OMODA | JAECOO Malaysia will add one more to the six available (at this time). Its parent company, Chery Corporate Malaysia has not just talked about investment and localising production but is really delivering on that commitment. By next year, its RM2.2 billion project in northern Selangor will see a new factory starting operations to assemble for the Chery, iCAUR, JAECOO and LEPAS brands.

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