BYD confirms Inokom will handle local assembly of its EVs

BYD has confirmed that it will assemble some of its EV models locally at the Sime Motors-owned Inokom plant on Kedah. No time-frame has been mentioned for when the first units will roll out but BYD would want to have them as quickly as possible before it runs out of the CBU stocks.

A source told MotaAuto.com that they can set up the assembly operations quite fast. Furthermore, the plant is already assembling electrified models (including fully electric models) for other brands and therefore has the necessary facilities for handling high-voltage components that require additional safety measures.

Contract assembly allows it to avoid the tough export conditions and also the conditions regarding the minimum CIF price for CBU EVs. This will enable it to offer some models in the range below RM200,000.

“This partnership marks another step in BYD’s growth in Malaysia alongside BYD Sime Motors. We remain focused on developing our local presence and exploring opportunities to deepen our investment in Malaysia through collaboration with local industry partners,” said Jacob Ma, Managing Director of BYD Malaysia.

Close relationship since 2022
Sime Motors already has a close relationship with the Chinese automaker as its BYD Sime Motors unit handles marketing and distribution of BYD vehicles in Malaysia, so assembly of vehicles is a natural progression.

“BYD’s decision to partner with Sime reflects the strength of Malaysia’s automotive manufacturing capabilities and the expertise we have developed over the years. Our experience in vehicle assembly, supported by an established workforce and local supply chain, provides a strong foundation for this collaboration,” said Dato’ Jeffri Salim Davidson, Group CEO of Sime.

“Beyond vehicle assembly, partnerships such as this create opportunities to strengthen Malaysia’s automotive ecosystem, support local businesses and develop capabilities that can contribute to the industry’s long-term growth,” he added.

Assembler for multiple global brands
BYD will join a long list of automakers that have had their products assembled at Inokom since it began operations in the 1990s. Currently, BMW, MINI, Porsche, Mazda, Hyundai and Chery have their vehicles assembled there.

Of significance is assembly of the Porsche Cayenne which began in 2021. It is the first assembly site outside Germany for the sportscar manufacturer and assembles vehicles for the Malaysian market as well as Thailand.

Inokom Corporation’s evolution into a multi-brand assembler and exporter