Previewed in July at a pet show in Kuala Lumpur, the JAECOO J5 EV is now officially launched as the brand’s first fully electric vehicle in the local market. As with its other models, the J5 EV is assembled locally at the Chery Corporate Malaysia plant in Shah Alam, Selangor. This means it is not subjected to that new condition set by MITI for EVs (those imported in CBU form must have a price of not less than RM200,000) and can be sold at a price starting from RM118,800.
Same as J.5 1.5
The J5 EV has the same overall appearance as the J5 1.5 with a combustion engine but the front end is different. With no need for cooling air, the whole front face is closed off, unlike the J5 1.5 which has the distinctive ‘Waterfall’ grille of the JAECOO brand.
Size-wise, the J5 EV is also the same as the J5 1.5 which has been on sale since the beginning of 2026. A B-segment model, it has an overall length of around 4.4 metres which is like that of the Proton X50. It’s said to be the widest and tallest crossover in the local B-segment, with a generous 2620 mm wheelbase that allows for comfortable seating for 5 persons.
Single FWD motor
The compact crossover’s powertrain has a single front-mounted motor with an output of 155 kW (211 ps)/288 Nm. Power is provided by a CATL battery with a 58.9 kWh capacity that has a potential range of around 400 kms. The battery is covered by a 10-year/200,000 km warranty.
Recharging the battery from 30% to 80% is said to take 28 minutes with DC power supply (up to 130 kW). AC charging at 11 kW takes around 7 hours from 10% to 100%.
Extensive equipment list
The J5 1.5 already has an impressive list of standard equipment and features which include a panoramic roof and powered tailgate, and the J5 EV is similarly equipped to the same level.
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.
Being an EV, noise levels will be lower and to make the cabin even quieter, there’s double glazing on the side windows – a feature usually found in expensive luxury models.
Mobile karaoke room
The added sound insulation will be useful when the cabin becomes a karaoke cubicle, a capability which is uncommon.
To provide the karaoke capability, the audio system includes dynamic sound processing with built-in reverb to combine the singer’s voice with background music. Using microphones provided, the occupants can choose from 4 unique acoustic presets. There’s also a vocal removal tool that converts standard songs streamed from a smartphone into instrumental backing tracks.
Pet-friendly
The other notable feature of the J5 EV (also in the J5 1.5) is pet-friendliness, which will be appreciated by those who bring their pets along on drives. A Pet Mode sets certain systems to ensure the well-being of the pets.
This is not just a gimmick as the cabin materials are certified by TUV (a German testing organisation) are kind to animals. The seat upholstery is also extra durable so 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 air conditioning filter, with its powerful filtration capabilities, also effectively blocks pet hair, while ensuring that the air inside the car remains fresh and clean at all times.
JAECOO designers have also come up with a range of pet accessories that fit into the large (and expandable) cargo area which has a volume of 480 litres.
While the new restrictions set by MITI for imported EVs may reduce choices under RM200,000, companies like OMODA | JAECOO Malaysia are assembling their vehicles locally to get behind the barrier.
